Alan Linn Hearonemus, 76, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Valley Senior Living – Woodside Village in Grand Forks

Born May 12, 1950, in Williston, ND, to Mabel (Urang) and Norman Hearonemus, Alan lived a full life filled with curiosity, varied interests, and service to others. His father's early death strengthened his determination to persevere, even in difficult times.

Growing up in Watford City, Alan was involved in multiple school activities, had a paper route, worked at the movie theater, managed the swimming pool, and helped at Benny's Bakery. This is where he discovered cake decorating.  In addition, he was an avid puppeteer and proudly earned the Eagle Scout award.

After graduating from Watford City High School, Alan earned a BS in Social Science from Valley City State College, where he was active in Theater 320 and Alpha Phi Omega. He returned to work at Leiseth Funeral Home in Watford City and ran the ambulance after the local mortician's death.

In 1974, Alan moved to Los Angeles to attend the California College of Mortuary Science.  He enjoyed all LA had to offer but North Dakota pulled him home.  He returned to North Dakota and began working for Norman Funeral Home in Grand Forks in 1975, remaining there until retirement. He was recently honored by the North Dakota Funeral Directors Association for 50 years of service. Alan believed that serving families during difficult times was his gift to society.  His compassion and professionalism earned him many friends throughout the Grand Forks community.

Beyond work, Alan honed his skills as a cake decorator.  It was one of his greatest joys.  His creations graced many weddings, anniversaries, retirements, and other special events, always trying new techniques. He was especially proud of the 50th anniversary cake he created for former Governor and First Lady Arthur and Grace Link. Alan continued making cakes well into retirement, including one for his 74th birthday while living at Woodside Village.

But that's not all Alan enjoyed doing.  He was a skilled flower arranger and stained-glass artist. He studied flower arranging in Boulder, CO, and later learned stained-glass design creating multiple pieces.

An active member of United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, Alan cherished his faith and loved listening to United's pipe organ. He often joined "Prayer and Share," and helped cook or serve at church functions. He enjoyed making and sharing lefse and donut treats.

Proud of his North Dakota roots, Alan always considered Watford City home. He loved his family deeply, and followed the lives of his nieces, nephew, and their families closely. He affectionately called himself the "old man," and visited whenever he could.

Alan is lovingly remembered by his sister and brother-in-law, Gale (Harvey) Link; nieces and nephew, Sarah (Christian) Schultz, Amber (Joesph) Zabaldano, and Matthew (Christine) Link; great-nieces and great-nephew, Schuyler Schultz, Aia "Doodle" Schultz, Zoey Zabaldano, Zackary Zabaldano, Audrianna Link, and Adeline Link; cousin, Kenneth (Eva) Jefferson; and his Cedar South family, where he lived for many years.

He was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Mabel Hearonemus; his sister and brother-in-law, Norma Mae and Dennis Biel; and many aunts and uncles.

Alan's legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friendships he built through work and hobbies, and the many lives he touched.

In lieu of memorials, please consider a gift to the Valley Senior Living Foundation Wishing Well Project, the United Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, or a charity of your choice.

Funeral Service and Celebration of Life: Will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 14, 2026, at United Lutheran Church, 324 Chestnut Street Grand Forks, ND 58201
Visitation: 10:00 a. m to 11:00 a.m. in the church on Monday.
Burial: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 15, 2026, in Schafer Cemetery, Watford City, ND.