Don Leifson, of rural Ryder, ND, passed away on December 17, 2018 at the age of 77. He died at home, in the house where he was born on February 24, 1941.

Don was the first of the "41 Club," a group of children in the community that were born in 1941. He was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses along with his parents on October 15, 1955. He completed the eighth grade at the local country school and started farming in Vang Township with his dad. His parents were older when he was born so they needed his help by that time. He bought his first tractor at the age of 16 – a 1941 M International, which he still owns. Don had a passion for airplanes from early childhood. He acquired his pilot's license and completed his first solo flight on February 10, 1984.

On June 5, 1960 he married his one and only girlfriend and best friend, Wanda May Sundby, of Mohall. They started their family on November 21, 1962, which grew into a family of eight children: five boys and three girls.

Don is survived by his wife, Wanda; Eight children: Karen Hall, Leon "Butch" Leifson (Kim), Dianna Leifson Thomas (Jeff), LaVon Readel (Stephen), Duane Leifson (Ann), Darrin Leifson (Amber), Daryl Leifson (Amy), Dennis Leifson (Shannan); Nine grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Halvor and Ina Leifson (Rowe), and 3 brothers: Norman "Bob," Gene, and Lyle.

At Don's request, there will not be a funeral or memorial service.