Jan Arthur Kostad, 66, unexpectedly passed away due to a heart attack on Saturday, May 30, 2026, near Lignite, ND.

Born in Kenmare, ND on July 22, 1959 to parents Arthur and Joyce (Nygaard) Kostad. He was the little brother to two older sisters and embraced living on the farm near Lignite, ND. He graduated from Burke Central in 1977 and went on to Williston State College before continuing to University of Montana and graduating in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Go Griz! He started his accounting career in Williston, ND. He moved to Kenmare, ND in 1984 and took over the family farm for his parents along with opening his own CPA firm in Kenmare.

He married his loving wife Becky in 1990 and gained a son, Blaine. They welcomed daughters, Katelyn and Jeneca. Jan was a loving dad and grandpa, words cannot express how grateful we are to be able to call him Dad and Papa. His favorite title had to be “Papa Jan” and he wore it proudly! He worked hard to make sure he could provide a good foundation for his family.

He served on various boards giving his time and knowledge. He had a generous heart and leaves a wonderful legacy behind.

Jan instilled his love for the mountains, particularly Whitefish area in his wife and all 3 children, daughter-in-law, and son-in-law and the 4 older grandchildren. Memories of skiing, hiking, swimming, fishing at Elmer’s pond, sledding, and more will be cherished by all of us. He was a wonderful cook! His kids and grandkids always requested him to make potato dumplings. Lefse and waffles were also his specialty. When we traveled, our day was planned around our meals.

Jan took pride in a well fertilized lawn and his beautiful evergreens planted at each home he and Becky shared. He enjoyed golfing when he was able to put work on hold and make it to the course. He shared that love of golf with his wife, and they golfed on many vacations together whether it be Myrtle Beach, Mesa area, Whitefish area, or home.

Jan loved adventure and was looking forward to many more adventures and time to relax alongside his family.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Becky; his children and grandchildren, Katelyn (Clinton) Crider and 2 sons - Zayne and Teaguen, Jeneca, and Blaine (Jenna) King and their 4 children - Bronko, Marly, Daisy, and Ranger. His sister, Linda (Dave) Peterson. His in-laws, Glen & Donna Froseth, Terry & Fay Froseth, Amy & Curt Helmers, and Randy & Shawna Froseth. He is also survived by numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur & Joyce Kostad; sister, Beatrice Englehard; nephew, Kelly Eggen; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorial Contribution