Thief River Falls – Richard Jorde, born August 27, 1942, in Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by his loving family. He was 83 years old.
Richard was the son of Clifford Thomas Jorde and Marzella (Rondorf) Jorde. He was raised in rural Excel Township in Marshall County alongside his three sisters — Ellen, Linda, and Sharon — in a home filled with love, faith, and strong family values.
He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, where his spiritual foundation was laid. Richard was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church, in Thief River Falls, where he had served faithfully on church boards and remained deeply committed to his faith community.
Richard attended Steiner School in rural Excel Township for grades 1 through 8 and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls. In 1960, he joined the National Guard and, following basic training, remained active until 1967.
On September 15, 1963, Richard married Sharon Yonke, beginning a loving partnership that spanned 62 years. Together they raised two children, Tamra and Michael, and built a life rooted in devotion, hard work, and quiet joy.
Richard’s professional life reflected his dedication and versatility. From 1961 to 1968, he worked at Sjoberg’s Appliance, followed by a decade at Amundgaard’s Implement from 1967 to 1977. He later managed several grain elevators, including Thief River Grain in Thief River Falls, International Multifoods in both Thief River Falls and Shelly, Minnesota, and the Newfolden Elevator. Throughout these years, he also farmed part-time alongside his father and uncles. After the passing of his father in 1990, Richard began farming full-time and continued until his retirement in 1996. He also sold Pioneer Seed during his farming years and for a few years following retirement.
Richard was deeply committed to his community. He was a member of the Thief River Falls Chamber of Commerce, where he served as Director, and was active in the TRF Jaycees and the American Legion. A passionate curler, he was a longtime member and officer of the Thief River Falls Curling Club.
His leadership extended to the agricultural community as well — he served on the boards of the National Sunflower Board, the St. Hilaire Coop Elevator, and Northwest Grain, where he also held the role of Chairman. He was also a dedicated member of the Valley Home Board.
Outside of work and service, Richard enjoyed hunting, curling, and cheering on his favorite teams. He was an avid sports fan who followed high school, college, and professional hockey, football, and basketball with enthusiasm and insight.
Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sharon; children, Tamra (Richard) Peick of Bloomington and Michael Jorde of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Samantha (Alec) Clement of Denver, CO and Zachary (Sarah Chance) Peick of Ames, IA; sister, Ellen Lindseth of Thief River Falls; and many other friends and relatives who will remember him for his steady presence, generous heart, and the values he lived by every day.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; sisters, Sharon (Donald) St. Germain and Linda Magner; brother-in-law, Nels Lindseth; and many dear friends and relatives.
The service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Reverend Kristin Ostercamp officiating.
Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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