Gordon “Red” Opstad

Grand Forks

Gordon Dennis “Red Fox” Opstad, 81, Grand Forks and Minot, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Grand Forks.

Red was born on April 12, 1944, in Minot, the son of Bjorgo and Clara (Berg) Opstad.

He graduated from Minot Model High School in 1962 and from Minot State University in 1966 with a degree in elementary education.

Red began his career in education teaching in Larimore, N.D. from 1966 to 1968. He then joined the Grand Forks Public Schools, where he taught at the Grand Forks Air Force Base from 1968 to 1974, and at Lewis and Clark Elementary from 1974 to 1975.

During this time, Red married Linda Cysewski, and became the father of two daughters, Trina in 1970 and Tricia in 1973. He earned a master’s degree in education administration from the University of North Dakota and transitioned into school leadership.

Red served as assistant principal at Valley Junior High from 1975 to 1980, during which time his son, Casey, was born in 1977. He continued his leadership roles as assistant principal at Central High School from 1980 to 1989, principal of South Junior High from 1989 to 1990, and returned to Central High School as principal beginning in 1990. Red retired from education in June 1998 and relocated to Minot, ND.

Red loved the outdoors and spent countless hours fishing, golfing, hunting, and cooking for his friends. He was known for his competitive spirit and enjoyed playing games of all kinds – cards, darts, and pool among his favorites. Throughout his life, he was active in sports, participating in football, wrestling, and track during his younger years.

His children remember him as a father who expressed his love through actions more than words. He had a kind soul who always looked for the good in others and could strike up a conversation with people from all walks of life.

Red held a special place in his heart for those who were struggling and was always willing to lend a hand when he could. He also had a wonderful sense of humor, and his quiet, unforgettable chuckle will be dearly missed.

Red is survived by his children: Trina Fifield (Ryan Ellingson) of Eagan, Minn.; Tricia Opstad of Missoula, Mont.; and Casey Opstad of Brooklyn, N.Y. He was a proud grandfather to Bradley Fifield, Kate Fifield, and Charlie Gordon Fifield. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Mick) Hanson; sisters-in-law, Pat Opstad and Arlene Opstad; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bjorgo and Clara Opstad; his brothers, Don Opstad, Byron Opstad, and Mel Opstad; as well as many dear friends.

Trina, Tricia, and Casey would like to thank Red’s countless number of friends who provided him with a lifetime of companionship, support, and love. They appreciate your friendship as well. Additionally, they would like to thank Valley Senior Living and Red River Valley Hospice for helping him feel comfortable, safe, and cared for during his last year of his life.

Memorial Service: Friday, May 23, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.

Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.

Fellowship: A “Remembering Red Party” will follow from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at The Vardon Golf Club. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Red’s life.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gordon “Red” Opstad Scholarship at the Grand Forks Foundation for Education & Alumni Network.

Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at www.thompsonlarson.com.

Published by The Minot Daily News, May 21, 2025.