Dolores Heggestuen

Dolores Laverne Heggestuen, 95, of Detroit Lakes, MN, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025.

Born on November 19, 1929, in Grand Forks, ND, Dolores grew up on her grandparents’ farm in Manvel, ND. She earned her master’s degree in fine art and taught art in Dilworth, MN, where she shared her love of creativity with her students.

In 1951, she married Merril “Mike” Heggestuen, and together they raised their four children in Fargo, ND: David of Audubon, MN; Robert (Sarah) of Minneapolis, MN; Susan Cain (Dale) of Soldotna, AK; and James (Linda) of Stillwater, MN. After Mike’s retirement, they moved to Detroit Lakes, where Dolores lived the rest of her life.

She was known for her kindness, creativity, and her love of dogs. A gifted painter, Dolores spent countless hours creating artwork inspired by her beautiful flower gardens. She loved spending time outdoors, tending to her gardens. She mentored many aspiring artists in the Detroit Lakes community and was a member of Gallery 4 and Woodland, where she exhibited her work. Her gentle spirit and ability to make others feel welcome will be remembered by all who knew her.

Dolores was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; three siblings; and her daughter-in-law, Colleen. She is survived by her sister, Karen (Lonnie) Sarbaum; her four children; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In keeping with her wishes, no funeral service will be held.

Family and friends are invited to honor her memory by planting something beautiful or creating art — something she believed anyone can do.

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