Garland Lee Sagen, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at Lilac Homes in Dilworth, MN, with his beloved wife, Margaret, by his side. He was 95 years old, having been born on Dec. 22, 1929, in the small town of Churchs Ferry, ND, to Clarence and Inga Sagen.
Garland grew up in Churchs Ferry, where he was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church on July 10, 1930. He was proud of his roots and embraced the values of hard work and community service from a young age. After completing high school, he furthered his education by attending college, before starting a career in the electrical industry.
Garland dedicated over three decades of his life to Nodak Rural Electric Cooperative, Hazen, ND from 1947 to 1977, where he began as a lineman and eventually rose to the position of Line Superintendent. His career was briefly interrupted by two tours in the Korean War, where he bravely served, 1948-1951, He entered the service as a 1st private and was honorably discharged as a corporal in the 5th Army Signal Corp, earning the Korean Service Medal with three bronze stars. After returning home, he continued his career in the electrical industry as a General Manager with Oliver Mercer Rural Electric Cooperative in Hazen, ND until he later retired in 1988, Devils Lake, ND
On June 26, 1950, Garland married the love of his life, Margaret E. Owens. They lived in Devils Lake, ND, prior to moving to Hillsboro, ND, for the next 17 years. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Judy Sagen-Dzul (Sandy Dzul), Rodney Sagen (Trudy Sagen), and Kenneth Sagen (Laura Sagen). Garland’s legacy will continue to thrive through his grandchildren and great grandchildren – Noah Miller (Mason), Tahirih Coleman (Sydney, Ashton) Miranda Jangula (Isabella, Gabriel, Thomas), Erin Cox (Liam, Jude, Luka).
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Garland was also a devoted community member. He served as a Scoutmaster for many years, instilling life skills and values in the youth of the community. He was an active member of the Sons of Norway, Zion Lutheran Church, and Toastmasters, just to name a few. He was always eager to help and share his
knowledge with others.
Garland’s interests were as varied as they were rich. He loved spending time with his family and many friends, going hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling. He had a creative side that shone through his woodworking and carving projects. One of his greatest achievements was the invention of the Sagen Hunter’s Field Saw I & II, alongside his son Rodney. Today, The Sagen Hunter’s Field Saw is a well-known, commonly used tool by hunters in the US and other countries.
Garland is survived by his loving wife, Margaret, sons Rodney and Kenneth, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a man characterized by his patience, humility, humor, and a life-long learner. Garland enjoyed life to the fullest and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center, Fargo, ND.
Garland Lee Sagen will be deeply missed but fondly remembered; his spirit will continue to light up our lives.
