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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ovide Hilaire Marcotte, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who passed away on July 27, 2026, at the age of 102, surrounded by family. Born on April 30, 1924, in the humble town of Olga Township, North Dakota, Ovide lived a life marked by deep love, unwavering dedication, and a legacy that will be cherished for generations.

Ovide was the beloved son of Telesphore and Marie Laure (Beauchamp) Marcotte, and he grew up surrounded by a large and loving family.  He was predeceased by his devoted wife of nearly 76 years, Verna (Schneider) Marcotte, who was his constant companion and the love of his life. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, love, and family, raising 11 children and instilling in them their values and faith, and demonstrating their love and dedication to each other

Ovide served his country with honor in the United States Army from 1949 to 1952, was then transferred to the Army Reserve, and was honorably discharged in 1955, demonstrating the same commitment and integrity that he would carry into all areas of his life.

He dedicated more than two decades of his life to the University of North Dakota as a groundsman and heavy equipment operator.  His work at the university was a testament to his strong work ethic and dedication. Still, it was his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather where his true spirit shone brightest.

Ovide was a proud father to his surviving children: Linda Steffen, Carol (Gary Thomas) Luther, James (Cheryl Wawryk) Marcotte, Wayne (Kimberly) Marcotte, Vicky (Dean) Evenstad, Terry (Christine) Marcotte, Luchelle (Joe) Luther, Candace Howard, Pamela (Ernest) Storey, Thomas (Angela Obregon) Marcotte, and Michael (Katie) Marcotte. His legacy also includes 33 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Ovide was a man of many talents and interests. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as gardening, woodworking, hunting, and especially "happy hour" with family and friends. His quick wit and warm smile were ever-present, and he had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. His kindness and generosity were unbounded, touching the lives of countless people both within and outside his family.

As a devout member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, Ovide made his faith the cornerstone of his life. His dedication to his faith provided a guiding light for his family. He often told the story of when, as a young boy in Olga, ND, where he was an altar server at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, he would spend his Saturday mornings at the Rectory with the Sisters to learn his prayers in Latin.

Ovide is survived by a brother-in-law, Harvey Schneider & sisters-in-law, Karen Schneider and Verna Schneider.  He was predeceased by his son-in-law Jack Luther, and his beloved grandchildren, Jamie Marcotte, Paul Luther, Randy Marcotte, Josh Marcotte and great-grandson Paul Bendrick; his sisters Edna Dalzell, Cecile Robillard, Anna Chaput, Theresa Robillard, Laurette Zettel, Juliette Dietz; his brother Eugene Marcotte; two infant brothers, Marcel and Leo; several brothers-in-law, and 2 sisters-in-law.

Though he is deeply missed, Ovide's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, the importance of family, and the enduring strength of faith. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will never be forgotten.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to HIA Hospice of Grand Forks for their compassionate care. Your kindness, patience, and support brought our family immense comfort.

Mass of Christian Burial: 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026 in St. Michael's Catholic Church, Grand Forks, ND.
Visitation: 5:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 4, 2026 in the Norman Funeral Home Chapel, Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the liturgy in the church on Wednesday.
Burial: Calvary North Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.
Military Honors: Accorded by members of the American Legion Post 157, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817 and the ND Army National Guard.