David “Dave” Hjalmquist, 68, of Moorhead, MN passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.

Dave was born January 3, 1958, to Carl and Joan Hjalmquist in LaGrange, Illinois. On September 21, 1979, he married Mary Rud, and together they raised two children, Tara and Tyler.

He was a talented computer programmer at Cole Papers for many years and then at Cass County Jail. He was also a teacher at M State in Moorhead. He had a variety of interests, one of the biggest being sports. He was a lifelong, avid Dallas Cowboys fan and you could always find him golfing at The Meadows Golf Course. He loved going to concerts, and his favorite band was Queen.

He enjoyed many family trips to National Parks and could spot wildlife from afar. He had a soft spot in his heart for animals, and loved his golden retrievers, Mai Tai, Obie, and Bailey.

He is survived by his parents Joan and Carl Hjalmquist; sisters, Doreen (Jim) Peters and Diane (Wayne) Brendemuhl; children, Tara Hjalmquist and Tyler (Joni) Hjalmquist; grandchildren, Griffin and Millie; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Debra “Debbie” Hjalmquist.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 4-6 p.m. at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN.

Memorials can be made to 4 Luv of Dog Rescue in Moorhead in Dave’s name.