Francis Irving Carpenter Jr.

Francis Irving Carpenter Jr., 97, Blaine, MN, passed away on April 5, 2026. He was born September 26, 1928 in Aberdeen, SD to Francis Sr. and Lee (Holmes) Carpenter.

Francis’ family moved to Havana, ND when Francis Sr. accepted a job. Francis spent the majority of his childhood there. In 1949, he went roller skating in Kidder, SD and met Nila Trygstad. The couple fell in love, but Francis joined the Army and served 2 years before he returned home. Nila and Francis were married on December 7, 1952 at Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church in Kidder.

Francis became a meat cutter for grocery stores. Nila and Francis moved around South Dakota, North Dakota, and settled in Minnesota, following job offers Francis would get. They had two children, Elizabeth and Edward. The family eventually settled in Blaine in 1967. They moved into their forever home in 1979.

Francis spent countless hours listening to his record player. After retirement, he continued to visit his old coworkers. He enjoyed gardening, walking at the mall, biking, and attending Twins Games. Nila and Francis went on multiple road trips throughout the years.

Grateful for sharing in his life are his wife of 73 years, Nila Carpenter; daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Carpenter; grandchildren, Angela Pinske, Joey (Tasha) Picotte, Jeannie Picotte, and Chrissy Picotte; great-grandchildren, Nathan Carpenter, Raven Keebler, Brooklyn Keebler, Jacob Picotte, Connor Picotte, Kenzie Christianson, and Broc Christianson; and many other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Sr. and Lee Carpenter; and son, Edward “Eddie” Carpenter.

Memorial service will be held at a later date.

Friends and family are welcome to sign the online guestbook.