Richard Trandahl

life story

The Epitome of devotion and love

… You, who are on the road

Must have a code that you can live by

And so become yourself

Because the past is just a goodbye

**CSNY – Teach your children Well***

In Loving Memory of Richard Trandahl 12/24/1945 – 03/03/2025

Richard (Dick) Trandahl, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, at 79. His heart, forever tied to the love of his life, Linda, could not bear to be apart from her for long. He joined her in eternal rest, leaving a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion.  

Born to Harold and Elaine Trandahl on 12/24/45 in Canton, South Dakota, he was raised with his brother Ron in Alcester, South Dakota, where they owned and operated the “Trandahl Cafe.”  The family later moved to Alexandria, MN, where he met his future wife Linda and began his career in butchery.

A man of simple joys, Dick found his peace on the water, where he could be found casting a line, patiently waiting for the perfect bass.  We could always find him in the garage sitting in his boat listening to music, and as teenage girls, we learned that the best time to approach him was while he was in the garage with his boat after a Bass Pro Shops catalog had come in the mail (we could have asked for almost anything on those days).  Going fishing with our dad or meeting him at a boat launch during a tournament for the weigh-in to cheer him on with pride were the best days.  Every year for their anniversary, he would send roses to Mom, one for every year they were married, with one extra, noting on the card, “just in case I’m fishing next year.”  

His love for music was a constant thread in his life, a gift he shared freely, never more beautifully than when he sang to his wife during her final days, his voice filled with love and devotion.  As kids, he would flip the radio stations, and if we could sing the song on any station, we would always be promised a treat or bonus.  He would come home from concerts saying (screaming), “I was right by the speakers; it was awesome.”  There was always music in the garage and in the truck, and music became an emotional release for him.  He sang beautifully, and we always knew he was at peace or coming to peace when lost in music.

Above all, he was a father who led by example, instilling in his three adoring daughters the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. His wisdom, steady guidance, and unconditional love shaped them into the strong and independent women they are today. He wore his heart on his sleeve, would do anything for his wife or daughters, and believed that actions were more important than words.  Though his presence will be deeply missed, his lessons and the warmth of his love will live on in our hearts forever.  His devotion to our mom showed us what we should want and expect in marriage – this is the final lesson we will take with us knowing that “what therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" (Mark 10:9)   We will be forever blessed by their example of true and eternal love.

Dick is preceded in death by his wife Linda, parents Harold & Elaine Trandahl, and niece Rachel Trandahl. He is survived by his daughters, Melissa (Dan) Nelson of River Falls, WI, Pamela Trandahl (Justin Dohlman) of Forest Lake, MN, Amy (Bob) Lipski of White Bear Lake, MN, his five grandchildren, Josie, Olivia, and Wyatt Nelson, Ryan Franzwa, and Sophie Lipski;  his brother Ron (Camille) Trandahl of Alexandria, MN, Sister-in-Law Cindy (Tim) Grabow of Brandon, MN, as well as nieces and nephews.  He is now with his beloved Linda, together again in a love that even death could not break.  

A joint celebration of life will be held on Dick & Linda’s wedding anniversary on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at a location to be determined, where family and friends can gather to honor a couple who gave so much.

Rest easy, Dad. Your love and lessons will guide us always, and we know you wanted to continue loving and caring for Mom. We take peace in knowing you are together again. We love you both so much and promise to look out for each other. Don’t worry, Dad; we’ll be “fine, fine, fine.”

memorial service

Celebration of Life for Dick & Linda

April 24, 2025

Sweet Magnolias Events 783 Radio Dr #113, Woodbury, MN 55125, USA

Please join us for a joint Celebration of Life for both Dick & Linda. It will be held on Thursday, April 24th, which would have been their 54th wedding anniversary, from 12:00p to 8:00p at Sweet Magnolia's in Woodbury. Come and go as you wish and join us in celebrating these two very special people and honoring the amazing life and love they shared. We'll have food and drink throughout the day and would love for you to join us and share all your special memories.

If you have any stories or photos you'd like to share, please reach out to us! We look forward to celebrating with you!