Orrin Ausen

Orrin Holger Ausen (68) of Wahpeton, ND, passed away at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, ND, surrounded by family on May 18, 2026. Orrin was born on November 27, 1957, in Sioux Falls, SD. He was the son of Holger and Opal (Opheim) Ausen. Orrin was baptized at Rose Dell Lutheran Church in Jasper, MN. He was raised on a dairy farm near Jasper along with his six siblings.

Orrin attended Jasper Public Schools, graduating in May 1976. He graduated from Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato in 1978 with an A.A. degree and later from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse with a degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Library Science. He worked as Head Librarian at Reedsburg Middle School, Bethany Lutheran College, and Traverse Des Sioux Library System. Orrin enlisted in the US Army, serving in Germany during Desert Storm. He also served several years in the US National Guard.

Orrin was united in marriage to Leslee Jacobson on July 25, 1992. They lived in Rock Springs/Reedsburg, WI, Mankato, MN, and Wahpeton, ND. Orrin was a Sales Rep for Schwann’s in the Wahpeton area. His most recent employment was at Minn-Dak Farmers’ Cooperative in Wahpeton until his retirement in 2024.

Orrin enjoyed both solo and choral singing with his fine musical gift. He would spend time fishing and always wanted a muskie on his hook. Orrin had a strong faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ, and trusted Him deeply throughout his life and for his eternity in heaven.

Orrin is survived by his wife Leslee, step-sons Chad (Aneta Kalicka) Jacobson, Luke (Jessica) Jacobson, and step-daughter Erika Jacobson. Surviving siblings include David Ausen, Jan Stadler, Carol (Roland) Klindworth, Marilyn (John) Laulainen, Eileen (Paul) Karow, brother-in-law Richard Hackbarth, and sister-in-law Wendy (Rick) Upton. Orrin is also survived by grandchildren Skyler, Alex, Effie, Fred, and many nieces and nephews whom he adored.

Orrin was preceded in death by his parents, Holger and Opal Ausen: step-mother Grace Ausen; father and mother-in-law, John and Patricia Rightmire; sister, JoAnne Hackbarth; brother-in-law, Tony Stadler, brother-in-law John Rightmire Jr.; and step-son, Todd Jacobson.

A celebration of life for Orrin will be held on Wednesday, May 27, at Breckenridge Lutheran Church, Breckenridge, MN, with visitation at 10:00 am, service at 11:00, and lunch following.

Orrin leaves behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and dedication to those he loved. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.