Alvin Klem, 85, Fryburg, died on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at his home. Interment will take place at 3 p.m. CT, Thursday, September 24, 2026 at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Military Honors will be provided by the Mandan American Legion Honor Guard.
Alvin was born on May 21, 1941, in Belfield to Steve and Polly (Dutchak) Klem. He graduated from Fryburg High School in 1960 and enlisted in the United States Army in 1961. After his honorable discharge in 1963, he returned home, purchased a combine, and spent many years heading south with his brother Ernie.
Alvin married Bev Lazorenko and two children were born, Aaron and Sheri. He worked for the U.S. Forest Service in Medora before transferring to Klamath Falls, Oregon. In 1990, he returned to North Dakota and purchased the Little Missouri Restaurant, which he later sold to buy a liquor store in Dickinson. He eventually sold the liquor store and retired.
He loved dancing. He also enjoyed snowmobiling in Yellowstone, South Dakota, and at home.
Alvin is survived by his son, Aaron; grandchildren, Gabrielle Klem, Macklin Klem, Blaire Klem, Heather Thompson, and Matthew Knopik; and sister, Diana (Mel) Mayher. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sheri L. Knopik.
