Denis Joseph Pagnac, 83, of East Grand Forks, MN, completed his journey on earth and entered eternal rest at home surrounded by his loved ones on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

Denis was born on Friday, the 13th of March 1942, at his grandparents' home in rural Argyle, MN, to Edward and Leah (Deschene) Pagnac. He grew up on the family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, faith, and service that would guide his life.

On July 30, 1960, Denis married his best friend and love of his life, Diane (Bjorgaard). Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, faith, and love.

Denis' sales career included nine years working at General Tobacco & Candy Company before joining Old Dutch Foods, where he dedicated 30 years until his retirement in 2000. Following retirement, he started his own carpentry business using his skills to do home renovations and additions. He mentored many of his grandchildren, passing on his knowledge and skills. He devoted countless hours helping his children and grandchildren build and remodel their homes.

Denis gave many years of service to Sacred Heart Church and School. He could always be found volunteering at parish events, lending a hand in the school's hot lunch program, or stepping in wherever he was needed. His quiet dedication and willingness to serve reflected his deep commitment to both his faith and his community.

One of Denis' greatest joys and legacies was clearing land and building the family cabin on Big Elbow Lake, MN, with his family. This cabin remains a cherished gathering place for his family, where his love and spirit will continue to be felt for generations.

Denis was a man of integrity who lived by example. He was a teacher of life, instilling in his family the values of respect, kindness, patience, hard work, service, faith, and love. He was also known for his joy, fabulous smile, love of sunsets, and legendary headstands. He especially treasured happy hours at Big Elbow Lake and on the beach during winters spent at their home in Estero, Florida.

Above all, Denis was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa who never wavered in his love, encouragement, and support for his family.

Denis is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Diane; children, Denise (Mike) Effhauser, Mark (Laurie) Pagnac, Dana (Dan) Yanish, Chris (Kari) Pagnac, Beth (Greg) Porter, and Rebecca (Jeremy) Jundt; 20 grandchildren; and 39 great-grandchildren, with number 40 expected this fall. In addition, his brothers, Elmer (Doreen) Pagnac, Kenneth (Nancy) Pagnac, sister-in-law, Marion Pagnac, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Leah Pagnac; brothers, Clarence and Duane; and sister, Verla.

Denis' legacy of love, laughter, and craftsmanship will live on through the countless lives he touched.

Denis' family is grateful to the staff of Home Care Companions and HIA "Hearts In Action" Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in East Grand Forks, MN.
Visitation: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, August 22, 2025, with a 4:30 p.m. rosary service and 7:00 p.m. Vigil Service in the Historic Norman Funeral Home.  Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the liturgy in the church on Saturday.
Burial: 12:15 p.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Nisbet Cemetery, rural East Grand Forks, MN.