Valery D. “Val” Stockert, 62, Dickinson, died Friday, June 19, 2015, doing what he loved, spending time and tinkering at his lake home north of Beulah. Val’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 25, 2015 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Dickinson, with Fr. Keith Streifel as the celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson, with a rosary & vigil at 7 p.m., with Deacon Bob Stockert presiding.

Val was born on May 12, 1953 in Dickinson to Valentine and Evangeline (Frank) Stockert. He was raised in Dickinson and graduated from Dickinson High School. He married the love of his life, Debra Frenzel on October 21, 1972. The same year Val and his brother, Lyle, started and continue to operate A-1 Contractors and S&S Installers. Val also started A-1 Sanitation, which will continue to be operated by his family.

Val was happiest when he was with his wife, children and grandchildren. He had many skills, but loved it most when he was cooking and grilling for them and celebrating special occasions. His grandchildren, Savannah and Sam had a special place in his big heart, and no matter how busy he was, there was always time for a quick ride on a tractor or four wheeler that often lasted all afternoon. He enjoyed working on classic cars and tinkering in his shops, it seemed a new addition was added every year to hold his growing collection of antiques. He always had a project or two to finish and could often be found outside with their two English Springer Spaniels, Maizy and Louie, and little rescue dog, Rella. Val and Deb spent a lot of time year round at Dakota Waters in the beautiful A-Frame they took pride in building together. He will be remembered for his tough exterior, but heart of gold.

Val is survived by his father, Valentine Stockert; his wife of 42 years, Deb Stockert; three children, Blaine (Melissa) Stockert, Jessica (Dale Wanner) Stockert, and Tyler Stockert; grandchildren, Savannah and Samuel Stockert; siblings, Lillian (Doug) Homstad, Lyle (Diane) Stockert, Larry (Linda) Stockert, Vivian (Dan Caylor) Klein, Virginia (Dave) Sticka, Alvin (Tammy) Stockert and Julian (Don) Gerber; several nieces and nephews; and his Frenzel family.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Angie; brother, Gary Stockert; father and mother-in-law, Ralph and Tillie Frenzel, brothers-in-law, James and Ralph, Jr. Frenzel; niece, Jennifer (Homstad) Barrera; and nephews, Matt and Chase Frenzel.

In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you take a moment to hug your child, grandchild, friend, or do what you love for the moment, an hour, or a day. Time waits for no one.