Michael Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Michael (Mike) Lynn O’Shaughnessy, age 79, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Mike was born to Enos and Vera (Stratton) O’Shaughnessy in Grafton, ND. He grew up in Hamilton, ND, where he graduated from high school in 1964. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO and radar training in Fort Bliss, TX. He later served in Germany and was honorably discharged in December 1967.

Following his military service, Mike pursued further education at the ND State School of Science, graduating in 1970 with a degree in Electronics Technology. He embarked on a long and distinguished career at Minnkota Power in Grand Forks, ND. Over the span of 39 years, he held various roles, leaving a lasting legacy through his commitment to excellence and his ability to manage complex projects.

On March 18, 1972, Mike married Diana Hartz, embarking on a lifelong partnership built on love, laughter, and shared values in Grand Forks, ND. Together, they lovingly raised four children—Mark, Melissa, Michele and Monica. Mike's dedication as a father was evident through the close bonds he fostered with each of his children, guiding them with wisdom, humor, and unwavering support. As a grandfather, Mike cherished his seven grandchildren. He loved spending time with them, sharing stories, teaching life lessons, and creating treasured memories that will continue to inspire and comfort his family for generations.

Mike and Diana were enthusiastic fans of University of North Dakota sports. They often traveled out of town to cheer for their beloved UND teams, sharing their passion for athletics with their family. Summer weekends were spent at their camper in Detroit Lakes, MN, where Mike delighted in campfires, golfing, and teaching his children to water ski—famously by tossing them into the water and wishing them “good luck.” These playful moments fostered lifelong friendships and cherished memories for his family. Mike’s sense of wit and generous spirit shone through in these family traditions, making him a beloved father and friend. His ability to bring people together, whether around a campfire or at a sporting event, left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Mike is survived by his wife, Diana; his children: Mark (Alicia) O’Shaughnessy of Norwalk, CT, Melissa (Brandon) Lunak of Moorhead, MN, Michele (Jeff) Sliper of Detroit Lakes, MN, and Monica (Don) Gullicks of Fargo, ND; grandchildren: Brycen (girlfriend Elise Martinson) and Azylen Lunak (boyfriend Kaleb Hodges), Jaycie, Justin, and Jordyn Sliper, and Michael and Jacob Gullicks; his brother, Robert (Sheila) O’Shaughnessy of Bismarck; his sister, Jean Swenson; sister-in-law, Donna O’Shaughnessy of Bismarck; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Leland O’Shaughnessy and Ray O’Shaughnessy, and sisters Lillian Fisher, Corrine Herbal, and Rita Melvin.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Zion United Methodist Church in Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held at a later date in The Fargo National Cemetery, Fargo, ND. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA). More information is available at LBDA.org.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Hearthstone Memory Unit in Grand Forks, ND, and the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND. Their unwavering compassion, kindness, and professionalism provided immense comfort and support to Mike and his loved ones.