Philip Hofstad, 82, of Bemidji, MN died Tuesday, September 25, 2018 in Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. Phil was born on April 14, 1936 to John and Lillian (Anderson) Hofstad in Bertha, MN, and was raised on the family farm in Eagle Bend, MN. On November 19, 1960, he married Carole (Olson) in Moorhead, MN.
Upon graduating from Concordia College, Moorhead, MN in 1961, they spent 1 year at Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, IA before moving to Bemidji, MN. Phil received his teaching certificate and Master’s Degree from Bemidji State College. He spent his entire 30-year teaching career at Bemidji Jr. High School and Bemidji Middle School.
He was known to be strict, but fair in the classroom. He cared about his students and challenged them to do their best. He also spent many summers working for various construction companies.
Following retirement in 1993, Phil and Carole enjoyed spending time with family at their home on Lake Movil and camping with children and grandchildren. They took advantage of travel opportunities with the 55 Connection Group and made many lasting friendships. Phil was a long standing, active member at First Lutheran Church putting his faith into action by serving on many boards, committees and participating in the Men’s Group.
He enjoyed Senior Bowling and most recently, his days at the Adult Day Services. Phil worked hard to provide for his family, and even when times were tough he strove to find something good in everything. Despite dealing with many health issues that eventually limited his independence, he never complained.
He will be remembered for his warm smile, his kind ways, and his welcoming handshake. He is survived by his wife, Carole Hofstad of Bemidji; children, Jon (Sonja) Hofstad of Sioux Falls, SD, Susan (Curt) Cavalier of Moorhead, Karen Hofstad of Baraboo, WI and Steven (Lisa) Sethre-Hofstad of Moorhead; 5 grandchildren, Sarah (Arlyn) Rusche, Cate Cavalier, Ben Cavalier, Dane Sethre-Hofstad, Annika Sethre-Hofstad; sister, Ardis (David) Braaten of Grand Forks, ND and brother-in-law, John (Ruth) Ferguson of Northfield. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lillian Hofstad and sister, Ruth Ferguson.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at First Lutheran Church, Bemidji with Pastor Linnea Papke-Larson and Pastor Corey Fuhrman officiating. A time of sharing will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, October 8, 2018 at Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, and on Tuesday, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church. Inurnment will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Bemidji.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to First Luther Church, American Diabetes Association or Alzheimer’s Association. Online guestbook at www.
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