Warren Irwin, 72, rural Minot, died Saturday, August 20, 2011 at his residence.

Warren was born May 31, 1939 at Minot, North Dakota the son of Albert and Grace (Spoklie) Irwin. He was raised on the family farm 13 miles south of Minot in the South Prairie area and educated at Freedom Township School #2. He graduated from Minot High School and served with the North Dakota National Guard unit.

Warren was employed with the John Deere Company out of Moline, Illinois, where he traveled throughout the United States doing testing and trouble-shooting of much of the farming equipment. He retired in 2000, after working for more than 30 years with the company. He lived in Fargo for a few years, before returning to the farm, south of Minot, where he had lived the past several years.

Warren was an avid baseball fan, having played amateur baseball with his brothers for the Gasman Township team during his younger years. He enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins on the television. He was confirmed at Saron Lutheran Church, where many of the family attended Sunday School. He enjoyed animals, especially his dog, Tina.

Warren's family includes: sister, Sharon (Earl) Spencer, Oxnard, CA; brothers, Arlan (Margaret) Irwin, Willmar, MN and Gordon (Kaye) Irwin, Phoenix; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Warren was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Helen Kontas.

Funeral service: Friday, August 26, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Saron Lutheran Church, rural, Minot.

Interment : Willis Township Cemetery, rural Sawyer.

Visitation : Thursday from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.