David M. Lajimodiere, 72, of Grand Forks, ND passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks. He was a beloved brother, parent, grandparent, friend, and hairdresser whose impact on his community was immeasurable.

David was born December 7, 1951, in Walhalla, ND, to Della and Michael Lajimodiere. He was the second of seven siblings. He graduated from Walhalla High School in 1970.

After high school, David pursued his passion for cosmetology at Bill's Hair Stylist College (now Josef's School of Hair, Skin & Body), where he graduated in 1971. He worked at many salons early on in his career, including Mrs. Kings: his salon on Main in Walhalla, and then in the Cavalier outskirts, as well as venturing out to work in Minneapolis, MN for a couple of years, all before moving back and settling in Grand Forks with his mom in the early 80's. His mom passed away in 1993, but her memory was prominently kept alive every day of his life. Like many others, he was displaced by the devastating flood of 1997, which took his home on Cherry Street. He later settled into his duplex on 10th, where he called home for over twenty years.

David's work as a hairdresser was his life's calling. Over the years he had salons on all the "main drags" of Grand Forks, including Washington, Gateway and Columbia. His salon chair was more than just a place for haircuts—it was a space for self-expression, where he helped his clients achieve their unique visions.

He met his longtime work partner, Janice Strande, in 1993, and together they built a strong friendship, supporting each other in work and life. They spent a majority of their salon years keeping each other in check during the workday and often commemorated their accomplishments over happy hour. He had a way of turning the ordinary into something unforgettable, like his signature cocktail; a Tito's Cran, always with a smile.  David often joked that he'd retire when he won the lottery, but his dedication and motivation kept him working until the end. August 26th was his last day with his clients at Studio South. His clients were such an important part of his life. Many of them became lifelong friends, some spanned more than 50 years.

David's greatest pride and joy were his babies, his daughter Breeze and his precious granddaughters, Adylynn Ida Elise and Aurora David Marie. He was ever-present in their lives and cherished every moment with them. He cared for, protected, and adored them more than anything else in the world. His closest friends became his chosen family, and his loyalty and love for them never wavered. David had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved, leaving a lasting impression with his kindness and witty humor. In a world that can often feel dark, David was a beacon of light, always offering a hot meal, an encouraging conversation, or a place to rest for all those he cared about.

David was a community icon, everywhere he went he knew someone, or someone knew him. His talent as a hairdresser was recognized everywhere. He had a way of embracing everyone he came across with a strong, sharply honest, thoughtful, and caring connection. Those fortunate enough to be in his life experienced his fierce devotion and enduring love. He always saw the best in his loved ones and constantly held on to hope for each of them to reach their full potential. His life embodied strength and beauty, with the dare to live and express himself unapologetically.

David lived life to the fullest. Despite a seven-year battle with prostate cancer, David never let it steal his joy. He loved spending his summers outside working on his tan, listening to music, and planting flowers. He enjoyed playing bingo, shopping, spoiling his grand-babies, and taking many weekend trips to Minneapolis— always with an overpacked suitcase. He loved the time spent with every person in his life, people on many different walks of life, but all with an acceptance of one another. He was the life of every party, whether it was at holiday gatherings, his annual December dinner parties, summer cookouts, or Pride celebrations. His motto was simple: "Let's have a party."

David is survived by his daughter, Breeze Yanish; his favorite son-in-law, Adam Yanish; his granddaughters, Adylynn and Aurora, all of East Grand Forks, MN; his siblings: Betty Lajimodiere of Walhalla, ND, Larry (Tina) Lajimodiere of Cavalier, ND, Rodney Lajimodiere of Fargo, ND, Arnold Strand of Gordo, Alabama, Kenneth Strand of Grand Forks, ND, and Darla Larson of Grand Forks, ND; his Uncle John (Sue) Ouellette of Grand Forks, ND; all of his nieces and nephews; as well as the friends that were the greatest chosen family.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Della C. Karlson (Ouellette); his father, Michael Lajimodiere; his beloved grandmother, Ida Ouellette; his nephews, Jeff Lafferty, Kenneth Strand Jr., and Andrew Strand; and many dear cousins, clients, and friends.

David's legacy is one of compassion, love, and the courage to be vibrantly oneself. In his memory, let us all continue to spread love and kindness.

A Celebration of Life: 4:00 p.m. September 14, 2024, at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817, 312 Demers Ave., East Grand Forks, MN 56721.
Interment: 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 19, 2024 at St. Boniface Cemetery, in Walhalla, ND.