Lyman D. Nygaard

Lyman D. Nygaard, 90, Shelly, MN, died Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Halstad Living Center, Halstad, MN.

Lyman Dennis Nygaard was born June 7, 1936, in Shelly, MN, to Palmer and Martha (Nelson) Nygaard. He was raised and educated in Shelly. He enlisted with the United States Army in 1955 and proudly served his country and was a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne, earning the title of Green Beret. Following his return home from the Army, Lyman was united in marriage to Geraldyne J. Sistad on December 29, 1955. They settled in the Shelly area raising their four children, Leslie, Mark, Julie and Cathy.

During his working career, Lyman farmed with his father Palmer for several years until starting his own carpentry business, Nygaard Construction. Lyman was active in his community and surrounding area where he belonged to Toastmasters, Shelly Lions Club and served on the Halstad School Board.

He was a gifted musician, teaching himself how to play the piano, guitar, accordion, and fiddle. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Lyman enjoyed spending time on his Ipad scrolling through social media and keeping in touch with extended family.

He is survived by his four children, Les (Carol) Nygaard of Moorhead, MN, Mark Nygaard of Halstad, MN, Julie Nygaard of Fargo, ND, and Cathy (Mike) Kolness of Mapleton, ND; he is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Lorraine, Marvel and Patricia (Kevin).

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 67 years, Geraldyne; his parents, Palmer and Martha; two grandchildren, Andrew and Nicholas Kolness; great-granddaughter, Charlotte Reeves; two brothers, Vernon and Lyle; and two sisters, Gloria and Shirley. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 2PM - 4PM, with a 3:30PM memorial service at the Legion Recreation Center in Halstad, MN.