Eugene Harold Heald

Eugene (Gene) Harold Heald, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on December 20, 1938, in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, to Lyle Wallace and Virginia Esther (Andrews) Heald. Growing up on a dairy farm in Underwood, Minnesota, Gene embraced the joys of rural life during his formative years. He excelled in sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. His high school years, culminating in his graduation in 1957, were marked by cherished memories and youthful adventures.

On July 11, 1959, Gene married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Stine, beginning a beautiful journey of love and partnership. Their lives together started in Moorhead, Minnesota, where Gene worked for Wilbert Vault Company, later contributing his talents to Camrud Foss Concrete. In 1964, they moved to Glyndon, where they built a home, weaving their dreams together as they nurtured their family.

Gene's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Heald Construction Company, where his craftsmanship could be seen throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area. They then ventured and made a home in Elbow Lake, MN where he continued to share his talents in construction for 32 years. Even after retiring from his business, he found joy in small building and repair projects, always keeping busy with the work he loved. In recent years, Gene and Joyce transitioned to Eventide Senior Living in Moorhead, where they continued to share their lives in a supportive community.

Family was at the heart of everything Gene did. He dedicated time to coaching little league baseball and served as a cub scout leader, always present at every milestone in his children's lives. His love of hunting and fishing further reflected his deep connection to nature and the outdoor experiences he cherished with his family.

Gene leaves behind a loving legacy, survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Joyce Heald, and their five children: Wanda (Doug) Wagner of Verndale, MN; Keith (Paulette) Heald of Barnesville, MN; Deonna (Shane) Atkinson of Bowdoinham, ME; Verlynn (Lisa) Agrimonti of St. Paul, MN; and Shane (Angie) Heald of Leader, MN. His generous spirit lives on through 16 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren, as well as three siblings: Audrey Larson of Litchfield, MN; Lois Bjorgaard of Battle Lake, MN; Gerry Heald of Battle Lake, MN; and brother-in-law, Fibber Henderson of Wheatland, WY along with many nieces, nephews, and friends who cherished him.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Virginia Heald, and his sister, Joan Henderson.

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, Gene Heald, at the age of 86, peacefully passed away at Eventide Nursing Home in Moorhead, with family by his side. While we mourn his loss, we take comfort in celebrating a life well-lived, a heart full of love, and the countless memories he created with those who were fortunate to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 11am-3pm, on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at picnic shelter in Tipsinah Mounds Campground in Elbow Lake, MN.  In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Elbow Lake Community Center.