Howard Moldenhauer

Howard E. Moldenhauer, 82, passed away peacefully at his home in Mandan on April 16, 2026.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Mandan with Pastor Phil Leer officiating. A luncheon will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Buehler-Larson Funeral Home in Mandan with a Prayer Service at 7 PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

A committal service with full military honors will take place at 1 pm on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan.

Howard was born September 2, 1943, to Edward and Hertha (Wenzel) Moldenhauer on a farm in Eckman, ND. He was welcomed into the world by his three older siblings, Delores, Vern, and Wally. After a few short years, the family moved to Upham, ND where he attended a rural school through the sixth grade.

In 1959, Howard’s parents moved to Berthold, ND, but he remained in the Upham area, living and working for local farmers. In 1960, he traveled south to work in custom combining for area farmers. After several years of working independently, he later joined his brothers in powerline construction.

Howard was a hardworking man who always provided for his family. In 1964, he met the love of his life, Sharon Stevenson, and they were married in 1966 in Glenburn, ND. They spent 60 years together. During this time, Howard also served six years in the National Guard. In 1967, Howard and Sharon moved to Mandan, ND where they began building their life together and welcomed four children into the world.

Howard continued his strong work ethic by joining the Mandan Police Department, where he proudly served his community for 23 years. After retiring from law enforcement, he worked as a court security officer at the Federal Building for the U.S. Marshals Service until his retirement in 2013.

Howard had many hobbies that he truly loved. He took great pride in tending his garden, growing cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and many other vegetables. He also enjoyed baking, often creating delicious treats—especially his famous donuts that everyone loved. He loved fishing, even on days when the fish weren’t biting, simply enjoying the peace and fresh air. Hunting geese and ducks at Goose Camp with friends was another favorite pastime. He and Sharon enjoyed camping throughout North Dakota, traveling many miles together and making lasting memories. He even found excitement in watching and wagering on horse races.

Above all, Howard cherished being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Sharon shared many adventures, traveling and experiencing the world together. He could often be found at sporting events, proudly cheering on his children and grandchildren—whether it was basketball, baseball, volleyball, hockey, bull riding, or more.

Howard had a way of lighting up a room with his warm smile and captivating stories. He was a remarkable, kind-hearted man who deeply loved his family and friends, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Howard is survived by his wife, Sharon; sons, Michael Moldenhauer and Gerald (Stacie) Moldenhauer; daughters, LeAnn Olson (Kerwin Lang) and Jodi Butler; grandchildren, Mitchell (Brandy) Moldenhauer, Jessinda (Kyle) Dahlin, Roberta (Brandon) Salberg, Gus Moldenhauer-Kronberg, Santana Butler, Sierra (Colten) Jacobsmeyer, Savannah Butler (Jayjay Jacob), and Boden Olson; great-grandkids, Brielle & Blakely Dahlin, Colter & Hattie Salberg, Cameron Jacobsmeyer, and Ameer Jacob; siblings, Delores Gessner and Wally (Donna) Moldenhauer; sisters-in-law, Shirley Faa, Cathy (Arnie) Langehaug, and Nancy Stevenson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Edward & Hertha; granddaughter, Bristol Dahlin; brother, Vern (Karen) Moldenhauer; father & mother-in-law, Clive & Ellen Stevenson; brothers-in-law, Myron Faa and John Stevenson.