Alex L. Dettling

Alex Leo Dettling, 84 of Devils Lake ND passed away on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at CHI, St. Alexius Health, Devils Lake Hospital.

Alex was born in Devils Lake, the son of Paul and Christina (Schiele) Dettling on January 29, 1937. He was raised and educated in Devils Lake attending St. Mary’s Academy.  Alex served in the Army Reserves for a time and was honorably discharged on June 30, 1963.

While in his teens, Alex worked for his uncles on their farms and also went custom combining with Art Olson.  As a reward for being a good employee, Art gave Alex his first vehicle which was a 1933 Ford Sedan, which he was so proud to own. 

At the age of 20, Alex started in the tire business and in 1981, Alex and his brother David purchased Speedy’s Tire in Devils Lake.   Alex had a 63-year career in tires, retiring in 2020. He was very proud of the hard work and dedication it took to be a local businessman. 

Alex married Janice Bremseth in 1958. They had 3 children Michael, Roddy and Darcy.  They later divorced. 

Alex married Sandra Lill on October 17, 1975 and they had 2 children Donovan and Jamie.  They lived, worked and raised their family in Devils Lake through the years. 

Alex was an avid bowler in men’s and mixed doubles for over 25 years.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.  He always enjoyed a game of cards with family and friends. He treasured each and every moment spent with family and was so happy to be a grandpa to his precious grandchildren. 

Alex is survived by his loving family.  His wife Sandy; 5 children and 7 grandchildren Michael (Kay) Dettling, Cheyenne WY and son Travis, Roddy (Dawn) Dettling also of Cheyenne and daughter Kimberly,  Darcy (Dennis) Klein,  Grand Forks ND and children Preston and Allison, Donovan (Shannon) Dettling , Fargo ND and children Trevor and Jacob and Jamie Dettling also of Fargo and son Braydon; several great grandchildren; brothers David (Pat) Dettling, Devils Lake and Richard (Marge) Dettling, Roseville MN and several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Bernice Trummer, nephew Lee Trummer and in-laws Art Lill, Genevieve Lill-Washebek and Ray Washebek. 

Visitation will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Thursday, August 5, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a time of prayer and sharing at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be on Friday, August 6 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Devils Lake with Reverend Jim Paulson officiating.  Visitation on Friday will be at the church one hour prior to the funeral service.  Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery. 

Casket Bearers will be Alex’s grandsons Travis, Braydon, Trevor and Jacob Dettling.