Waldo Zahn

Waldo William Zahn Jr., "Akicita Najin" (Standing Soldier), age 67, passed away on May 31, 2026, in Mandan, surrounded by the love of his children. His passing leaves a quiet ache, yet his memory remains a gentle, steady light for everyone who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10 AM on Friday June 5, 2026, at the AJ Agard Multi Cultural Center in Fort Yates. Burial will follow at the Kidder Family Cemetery in rural Fort Yates.

The family procession from Mandan to Fort Yates will begin at 4:30 PM on Thursday, June 4, from Weigel Funeral Home to the AJ Agard Multi Cultural Center. A wake service will begin at 7 PM followed by an all-night vigil.

Waldo was born in Fort Yates, ND, to Helen Felix and Waldo Zahn Sr. He spent his childhood in Fort Yates, White Shield, and Jamestown, each community shaping him in meaningful ways. He attended Wahpeton Boarding School for most of his early years, where he learned resilience, independence, and the importance of family. He later graduated from Kicking Horse Job Corps with his GED and training as a diesel mechanic, a trade he was proud to master.

After completing his education, Waldo returned home and began working for the Fort Yates Public School as a bus driver, a role he held for 30 years. It was more than a job; it was a place where he found purpose. He cared deeply for the students he transported, offering them safety, consistency, and kindness every day.

Following his retirement from the school, Waldo began a new chapter at Prairie Knights Casino, where he worked in Maintenance, Security, and eventually as a Slot Technician. His coworkers respected him, and many became lifelong friends. No matter the role, Waldo brought dedication, humor, and a steady presence that people relied on.

Waldo was also an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved the outdoors, and he loved the stories that came with it - the hunting adventures, the tall tales, and the legendary buck that always managed to get away. He was fortunate to hunt alongside his children, brothers, nephews, friends, and later his grandchildren, as soon as they were old enough to join him. These moments became treasured memories for everyone who shared them with him.

He also enjoyed visiting casinos whenever he could, traveling to Grand River, Four Bears, and Dakota Magic, which were among his favorites. And above all, his greatest joy was simply spending time with his family and grandchildren - visiting, laughing, and cheering on his favorite NFL team, the Denver Broncos. He truly was one of their biggest fans.

Waldo made his home in Fort Yates, ND, where he lived until he suffered a stroke. The land, the river, and the community were woven into the fabric of his life. Even as his health changed, the spirit of Fort Yates - and the life he built there - remained close to him and to those who loved him.

Throughout his 67 years, Waldo lived with sincerity and purpose. He carried himself with a humble strength, offering support in ways that were thoughtful, dependable, and caring. Whether through a warm smile, unwavering humor, a listening ear, or the simple comfort of his presence, he made the world softer for the people around him.

Waldo is survived by his five daughters who were the pride of his life: Wynette (Joseph) Snider, LeeDawn (Shane) Ramsey, Amy (Landin) Carry Moccasin, Courtney (Noah) Kills Pretty Enemy, and Blossom (Layne) Cadotte. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Alexandria, Kaleb, Joey, Lincoln, Allister, Everly, Kenzington, Dillon and Marceline.

He is further survived by his siblings: Valerie (John) Eagle Shield, Theresa (David) Holter, and Melvin Martinez; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren that he cherished and adored, who will remember him with love and gratitude for the bond they shared

Waldo was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Waldo Sr; brother, Nick; sister, Twyla; his son, Carl Kidder; the mother of his children, Carla Kidder; nephews, Erick Three Legs, Nevada and Jay Twinn, Larry Jr., and Justin Fox; niece, Catherine Fox; and grandson, Erick Three Legs. Their memories now join his, carried together in the hearts of those who remain.

Those who knew him will definitely remember his humor, his resilience, and the way he could brighten a room without ever trying. Though his absence leaves a space that words cannot fill, his spirit remains woven into the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.