William Manford Opsahl, age 82, of Fairhaven, died Saturday, April 11, 2026, at his home.

A graveside service with military honors will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Grace Lutheran Cemetery, French Lake.

William Manford Opsahl, a beloved father and dedicated craftsman, was born on April 5, 1944, at home in French Lake Township to William and Luella (Nelson) Opsahl. Bill grew up with a passion for all things mechanical that would guide him throughout his life.

Baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church in French Lake, Bill graduated with the Class of 1961 from Cokato High School. After graduating, he took his talents to the United States Navy, serving as a nuclear machinist on submarines. His commitment to service did not end with his military career. Bill continued to use his exceptional skills as a nuclear machinist with the United States Department of Navy, working at shipyards in California and Washington.

Beyond his impressive career, Bill was a man of many interests. He had a keen eye for collecting old tools from sales and auctions, and he loved building and restoring vehicles. Those who knew him will fondly remember his tenacity and thoroughness in every project he undertook. He once built a race car that met an unfortunate fate in its very first race, a testament to his adventurous spirit. In his retirement, he shared his passion for racing by serving on the race team for his nephew's crew, keeping his love for speed alive.

Bill is survived by his children, Dian (William) Dean of Bonneau, SC, Robert (Bernadette) Opsahl of Holland, OH, and Edward (Kirstan) Opsahl of Yakima, WA; grandchildren, Will, Michelle, Jordan, Taylor, Eric, and Olivia; step-grandchildren, Alia, Hylie, Christopher, Glenda; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Haley, Victoria, Charles, Stephon, Clayton, Anjelica, Christian, Ava and Lily; sister and brothers, Bernice (Tom) Follmer of Elk River, Paul (Betty) Opsahl of Dassel, and Dennis Opsahl of Annandale; and brother-in-law, Dave Hettinger of Murphy, NC; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Luella Opsahl; siblings, Elaine Opsahl, Mary Lee Hettinger, and Kenneth Opsahl; and ex-wife, Linda Smith Scroggins.