Dennis L. Sandberg, 74, Crosby, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2009, at St. Luke’s Hospital, Crosby.

A Mass of Christian burial was at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Crosby. The Rev. Biju Chitteth and The Rev. Daniel Berg co-officiated. A rite of committal was at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Crosby. Military honors are provided by William Perry Makee American Legion Post #75.

Dennis was born on June 6, 1935, in Noonan, the son of Nels and Ila (Poling) Sandberg.

He graduated from Crosby High School in 1954. Dennis married Donna Hess in Aug. 24, 1955, in Crosby.

He served a tour in the U.S. Army from June 8, 1955, to March 22, 1957, where they lived in Colorado and Germany. Dennis truly loved his community and was always looking to help the community grow. He served on several boards �” the elevator board, school board, Prairie Tumbleweeds, Bushel 42, serving as the governor of the Moose Lodge, past president of the curling club and the golf club.

Dennis enjoyed many years of watching school sports, and was very proud of the many years he served as a member of the “chain gang” for football games. He was a very devout member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Crosby, and served in many capacities. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Farming was Dennis’ life passion. He was frequently at the forefront of innovations in agriculture in Divide County. He was one of the pioneers in growing sunflowers and of no-till farming. He farmed until this past spring.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Nels and Ila Sandberg; sister, Lucille and his grandson, Joshua Sandberg.

He is survived by his wife, Donna, Crosby; children, Darrel (Betty) Sandberg, Crosby, Doug (Doreen) Sandberg, Omaha, Denise (Rich) Benson, Crosby, Diane (Jody) Gunlock, Farmington, Minn. and Donnie (Tami) Sandberg, Omaha; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two brothers, Larry (Nita) Sandberg, Dallas, Texas, and David (Jo) Sandberg of Eugene, Ore.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Luke’s Hospital renovation project.

Stakston-Martin Funeral Home of Crosby is in charge of arrangements.