Tribute to Lowell Regstad – BIA President, 1994

The Building Industry Association honors the life and legacy of Lowell Duane Regstad, who passed away peacefully on Aug. 27 at the age of 89, surrounded by his beloved family. Lowell’s journey, from humble beginnings in Hendrum, Minnesota, to becoming a leader in the building industry, was marked by a commitment to community.

Lowell served as BIA-RRV president in 1994, bringing not only decades of experience but also a contagious sense of fun and fellowship.

BIA-RRV CEO Bryce Johnson says, "Lowell had a light-hearted, joyful spirit that made everyone feel welcome. It was his idea to turn our October general membership meeting into a costumed event. He didn’t just suggest it - he led the charge, showing up dressed as a Smurf. It was a self-deprecating nod to his small stature, and it had everyone laughing. He knew how to bring people together.”

Founder of Regstad Construction, Lowell was recognized as “Builder of the Year” in 1990 and contributed to high-profile projects like Extreme Makeover. He hosted many entries on the Parade of Homes. He was a pivotal leader in the Association when the BIA constructed its current office building, helping to rally members who donated land, funds materials and labor to see the dream of a permanent home for the Association come true. Lowell is pictured below, third from left at the ribbon-cutting for the office building in the early 1990s, and with one of his homes and the Builder of the Year award on the right.

Johnson says, "Lowell was a gentleman with a huge, generous heart. His laugh was contagious and his homes set the standard for excellence. He was a jokester with a serious passion for building, and every home reflected that."

Lowell's work was more than construction; it was about building dreams and strengthening neighborhoods. Over more than 50 years, he helped shape the region’s housing landscape and mentored fellow professionals along the way.

His daughter, Denise Fournier, shared industry-related memories passed down from her father. She says, "He always said he owed his start to the people who believed in him, a banker who took a chance on his first house in the 1970s, and Brent Dietrich and Clay Dietrich, who gave him early opportunities. He never forgot that. He built his business by paying it forward, giving smaller operations and individuals a start or a second chance. His crew stuck with him. Many had faced setbacks, but Dad saw their worth and never abandoned them."

Lowell's life was rich with adventure. He danced, flew planes, raced sprint cars (earning “Champion of the Year” at Buffalo River Speedway), and explored the world with a metal detector in hand. He was a proud Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, and active in organizations like 4-H. Yet above all, he cherished his family. He often said, “I don’t regret anything in my life. I was very blessed. My biggest accomplishment was my family.”

He is survived by his children Debra Regstad, Brad Regstad, Denise Fournier, Kristi (Gary) Jorgenson; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; son-in-law Mark Fournier; and special friend Shirley Lee. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Olga Regstad, daughter Carla Regstad, sister Arlene (James) Gnoinsky, brother-in-law Marvin Jacobsen, and sister-in-law Wanda Regstad.

A celebration of Lowell’s life was held Sept. 6 at Wright Funeral Home in Moorhead. In honor of his legacy, memorials are preferred to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children or the Roger Maris Cancer Center.

Click here to read his obituary, see video of the service and access a tribute video.

Johnson says, "Lowell’s impact on the building industry and the BIA will never be forgotten. His leadership, laughter and love for life continue to inspire us all. He will be greatly missed!"