Rodney Dean Ulrich, 80, of Elgin, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026 in Fargo, ND, surrounded by the love of his family.

Rodney was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, businessman, and outdoorsman whose life was defined by hard work and a deep love for his family.

He built two successful businesses, Ulrich Excavating and Construction and Ulrich Custom Manure Hauling, through determination and dedication, creating a legacy of perseverance and strength that inspired those around him. He was proud to have run these businesses with his wife, Evon, and was able to employ many friends and family throughout the years. As proud as he was of both these businesses, he most enjoyed manure hauling having spent countless hours running his payloader.

Rodney found joy in the outdoors and spent many cherished hours hunting, fishing, and camping. Whether casting a line at the lake, heading out on a hunting trip, or sitting around a campfire, he felt at home in nature. Some of his greatest happiness came from sharing those passions with his grandchildren, teaching them how to fish and hunt and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Summers on the lake were moments he treasured deeply.

Above all else, Rodney's grandchildren were the light of his life. He loved spending time with them, sharing stories, life lessons, and adventures. His love extended to his great-grandchildren, who also brought him immense pride and joy.

Rodney is survived by his loving wife, Evon; his daughters, Cynthia (Duane) Kuntz and Tracy (Max) Rosin; his beloved grandchildren, Steven, Michelle, Jessica, Brittany, Sarah, and David and their spouses; and eleven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters Karen (Doug) Sokolosky and Joyce Steinle and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss his wisdom, warmth, and steadfast presence.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers; Donald (Virgina) Ulrich, Curtis (Muriel) Ulrich, Timothy Ulrich, Robert Ulrich, his half-brothers; Lee (Susan) Jueth and George (Alice) Ulrich, his half-sisters; Betty (Adam) Mann and Agnes (Rollin) Balliet, and his brother-in-law Jeff Steinle.

Rodney will be remembered for his strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, devotion to family, and the countless memories he created with those he loved. Though deeply missed, the stories, traditions, and lessons he shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation and viewing will take place from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Evanson Jensen Funeral Home in Elgin, followed by a prayer service beginning at 4 p.m.

Rodney's funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 1 at the Elgin Community Center, with burial at St. John's Cemetery in New Leipzig to follow.