Emil Panzer Jr., 89, of Grand Forks, ND passed away peacefully with family at his side on Tuesday, November 3, 2020.

Emil was born October 12, 1931 in Crookston, MN, the son of Emil Sr. and Barbara (Longmuir) Panzer. He attended Central High School in Grand Forks, ND, playing hockey and basketball.

Emil met Delores Purpur and they were united in marriage on October 3, 1951. They made their home in Grand Forks and started their family. They were blessed with 6 children. Emil worked for Great Northern/Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, starting his employment with them when he was just a teenager. He worked incredibly hard as a Fireman, Switchman, and eventually as an Engineer with BNSF Railroad until his retirement.

Emil and Delores enjoyed travelling. They travelled to numerous places, but especially enjoyed all of their years wintering in sunny Mesa, AZ. Emil enjoyed hockey. He especially loved watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play hockey. He taught many of the younger generations to ice skate. Emil also loved hunting and fishing and he was an avid daily lap swimmer for many years. He was always reading, learning, and had an incredible memory.

Emil was a quiet, kind, and generous husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all. He is survived by his wife, Delores, Grand Forks, ND; children Ken (Karen) Panzer, Gail (Mark) Kresel, Kathy (Scott) Bekkedahl and daughter-in-law Cindy Panzer; grandchildren Jay (Lisa) Panzer, Ben (Annie) Panzer, Jeff (Angie) Panzer, Jessica (Joel) Mickelson, and Ryder (Mikayla) Bekkedahl; great-grandchildren Braden, Evan, Kasen, Cooper, Jaksen, Jace, Corbyn, Callie, and soon-arriving baby boy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and sons Ray Panzer, Gordy Panzer, and infant son Richard Panzer.

The family would like to thank those with Hospice of the Red River Valley, Altru Hospice, and Valley Eldercare Center, who provided wonderful care to Emil.

Celebration of Life: At a later date.