Ralph A. Hjelmstad, 88, of Grand Forks, ND passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in Luther Memorial Home in Mayville, ND.

Ralph Alan Hjelmstad was born on March 17, 1937, in Grand Forks, ND the son of Paul and Ida Hjelmstad.  He was raised in Grand Forks and attended Grand Forks Central High School.  At the age of 18, Ralph enlisted in the United Stats Army on March 31, 1957, and served as Heavy Weapons Infantryman.  He was honorably discharged from active military service with the rank of Specialist Fourth Class on March 31, 1959, at Fort Lewis Washington.    He returned to Grand Forks and served for 2 years in the North Dakota Army National Guard.  Ralph was employed with  Labor Unions 580 and 563 until his retirement in 1994.

He enjoyed watching television and visiting with his family and friends.  Most of all, he enjoyed talking about his children and grandchildren.  Also, he was a fan of football and hockey.

He is survived by his children, Terry (Courtney) Hjelmstad, Kim Orlowski, Cheryl (Rhett) Spencer and Michelle (Paul) Landkammer; grandchildren, Taylor, Kyle, Kory, Jordyn, Trevor, and Tyler; great-grandchildren, Gabe, Hendrix, and Hayden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, James, Palma, Gladys, Lucille, and Ron.

Interment: 12:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025  at Memorial Park South Cemetery, 3002 South Washington St. Grand Forks, ND 58201.
Celebration of Life: 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025 at the American Legion Post 157, 1009 Central Avenue NW East Grand Forks, MN 56721.
Military Honors: Accorded at the time of interment, by members of the American Legion Post 157, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817 and the North Dakota Army National Guard.