Frank Axtmann, 72, of Watford City passed away at McKenzie County Healthcare Center on April 30, 2024, after a recent diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer.

Frank was born March 18, 1952, in Rugby, ND to Nick and Vernice (Bertsch) Axtmann. He attended school in Rugby, graduating from high school in 1970. He then attended Lake Region Community College before enlisting into the Marine Corps in 1973.

Frank Axtmann married Colette Ness on April 18, 1975. Two daughters and one son were born to them. Frank in earlier years enjoyed hunting, trapping, and time at the lake. Working years were spent in a variety of ways including: at Jack & Jill, trapping, cable TV, and the oilfield, among others. Some of his interests included watching the Pittsburg Steelers play football, seeing friends at D&M’s, and Budweiser. In true Frank fashion, his last word was “beer.”

Frank is survived by his daughters, Angie (Justin) Hartel of Watford City and their children, Cauy, Laney, Kree, Jordee and Gracyn; Stacy (Tim) DeFoe of Watford City and their sons, Chaz (Kyla) and their son, Walker, Hunter, Dalton and Treyton; one son, Jeremy Axtmann of Minot and his son, Holden. Sisters: Kathy (Ron) Hove of Ft. Myers, FL, Karen (H.A.) Ratcliff of Englewood, FL, Nicki (Gordie) Haman of Towner, ND. And one brother, Joseph Axtmann (Kathy) of Aberdeen, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick & Vernice; his wife, Colette; and one brother, Keith.