It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chad Demers, 33, who left this world peacefully with loved ones by his side on October 3, 2024. Chad was born in Grafton, ND, on November 15, 1990, to his loving parents, Guy and Susie Demers, who provided him with unwavering support in all his endeavors. He graduated from Grafton High School in 2009, where he excelled in football, hockey, and baseball, forming lifelong friendships along the way. Before completing his senior year, Chad left to pursue his passion for hockey, joining the Fargo Force, where he played for three years.
Chad continued his hockey career at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO, playing and serving our country from 2012 to 2015. After graduating from the Air Force Academy in 2015, he married his high school sweetheart, Danika (Carpenter), on July 11, 2015. They moved to Los Angeles, where Chad was stationed at the Los Angeles Air Force Base and served for three years.
In 2018, while serving as a captain in the United States Air Force, Chad was medically discharged after being diagnosed with brain cancer. He faced this challenge with unmatched courage and tenacity, battling the illness for over six years. Despite his illness, Chad lived life to the fullest, making the most of every moment with his family and friends.
Chad’s dedication to hockey extended beyond playing, as he became an inspiring coach to many young men. His knowledge of the game was profound, and his love for coaching was undeniable. Chad spent three seasons coaching the Fargo Force, one season at the Air Force Academy, and returned to the Fargo Force for another year before coaching his final season at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. His impact on his players was immeasurable, and he was admired for his infectious personality and ability to connect with everyone he met on and off the ice.
Chad and his brothers shared a unique bond. Despite the distance between them, they always stayed in touch. They could talk endlessly about hockey and baseball, never missing an opportunity to critique each other.
Above all, Chad was a family man. His three children, Beau (6), Thea (4), and Ella (2), were the light of his life. No matter what he was going through, he always found the strength to play with them and create lasting memories. Chad was also known for his deep love for his wife, Danika, and his entire family, who were his unwavering support throughout his journey. As a family, they enjoyed spending time together, whether traveling, attending sporting events, embarking on outdoor adventures, or just playing outside. His three children will always be reminded of the wonderful memories they shared with their Daddy.
Chad leaves behind his wife, Danika, and their children Beau, Thea, and Ella; his parents, Guy and Susie; his brothers, Tommy (Nikki) of Woodland Park, CO, and Joey (Jade) of Grafton, ND; grandparents: Maxine Larson, Don and Alice Demers, all of Grafton, ND; his in-laws, Jeff and Renae of Thompson, ND, Tanner (Julie) of Maricopa, AZ, Brenna (Brandon) of Thompson, ND, and Shaylee of Thompson, ND; his nephew, Braylon, and nieces, Lola and Adley, as well as numerous friends and loved ones. Preceding him in death were his Grandpa Charlie, a special Uncle Dale,cousin Brad, and Grandma Clarabell Demers.
Chad touched the lives of all who knew him, with his kindness, his love for sports, and his genuine ability to make others feel special. He was always up for a call to catch up or a trip to explore new places. His memory will forever remind us that the greatest achievements in life are the strong connections we share with others. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Funeral services will be Monday, October 7, 2024 at 10:00 AM at the Grafton High School Gymnasium. Visitation will be Sunday from 3-6 PM, with a prayer service at 6:00 PM at the Grafton Lutheran Church. Friends may also call at the school for one hour prior to the service. Military rites will be provided by the Grafton American Legion Post #41 and the US Air Force Honor Guard. Interment will be at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery of Oakwood, ND.
