Chris Holwagner

Chris Holwagner, 88, Bismarck, formerly of Center, passed away September 19, 2026 at Sanford Health, Bismarck.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 2, at First Lutheran Church, Mandan. Cremation has taken place and the family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at 1:00PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Chris was born in Turtle Lake, ND on March 15, 1938, the son of Christ and Caroline (Broeckel) Holwagner. He grew up on farms near Turtle Lake and Washburn before they moved into Washburn. Chris graduated from Washburn High School in 1956. From an early age, Chris learned to work hard at the various jobs he had. From 1961-1963, Chris proudly served his country in the US Army. While stationed in Berlin, Germany, Chris had the honor of participating in a 21-gun salute for President John F. Kennedy. He was honorably discharged in 1966.

In 1966, he married Charelette Gessele in Iowa. They lived in numerous states while Chris worked as a lineman and was a member of IBEW Local 714 for 50 years. In 1977, they built their home and farm on a piece of land east of Center where they lived for 45 years. He enjoyed raising cattle, spending time outside, and spending time with his family.

Chris leaves his wife of 60 years, Charelette Holwagner of Bismarck; sons, Kelly (Tracy) Holwagner of Fargo and Kyle (Jeannene) Holwagner of Bismarck; four grandchildren, Kelsi Holwagner of Golden, CO, Casey Holwagner of Underwood, MN, Wyatt (Steph) Holwagner of Boulder, CO, and Grace Holwagner of Boise, ID; sister-in-law, Constance Gessele of Bismarck; and many nieces and nephews.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; thirteen sisters; and a brother-in-law, Ron Gessele.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to plant a tree in Chris’ memory—a lasting tribute to a man who found so much joy in the land and the outdoors.