We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Woodrow James Fangmeier. He was born August 6, 1974 in St. Paul, MN to parents Joseph and Carol Fangmeier. After a 5-year fight with cancer Woody passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024 at the age of 50, surrounded by his wife and children at his home in River Falls, WI.

Woody was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Sarah and an amazing father to his two children, Isabelle and Isaac. Woody was a deeply committed follower of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and that light was reflected in everything he did. Woody had a heart for all people. As a dedicated Gonstead Chiropractor at his family-run practice, Innate Chiropractic, he, his wife and children always put his patients’ care and well-being above all else, ensuring they received the best care possible. Woody’s commitment to God, his family, and his practice was unwavering. He always led with honesty, integrity and a sense of humor that could brighten anyone’s day.

Throughout his life, Woody exemplified compassion and humility, always believing in the power of God and the importance of community. His impact extended as he served for many years as a youth group volunteer at his church. He was passionate about helping to instill the values of individual and personal faith/growth in their relationship with God.

Woody LOVED sports of all kinds! He was an amazing college athlete, and his passion for football and wrestling were some of his favorite pastimes. He not only loved the sports as an athlete himself, but he continued coaching at UWRF for several years after he began his practice in River Falls. He coached many years of middle school wrestling and most recently he coached his son’s baseball, flag football, and wrestling teams.

Woody embraced every challenge that came his way in life, including his fight with cancer. His belief in how God created the body with the innate ability to bring healing to itself never changed or wavered. And through the highs and lows, he and his wife held tightly to their faith, always believing for the best, watching for all the little miracles, and holding onto the commitment “It doesn’t matter what happens, we will figure it out together, one thing at a time.” Woody would always remind us all to: “Pray. Trust. Wait.” And so as we continue life without him on this earth, we know beyond the shadow of any doubt that he is in Heaven. He is whole, healed, and living his best life ever with Jesus! And someday we will be together again singing and praising and giving all glory and honor to God!

Woody is survived by his loving wife Sarah; children Isabelle, Isaac; sisters Carrie (Shawn) Olson, Amy (Todd) Lessman; many nieces, nephews and other family members; and a multitude of church family, friends and community members that have greatly supported his family throughout their difficult journey.

Woodrow was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Carol Fangmeier; his infant brother Bradley Fangmeier.

A Celebration of Life memorial service for Woodrow James Fangmeier will be held in his honor on Friday, August 23, 2024 at Hope Church, 7910 15th St. N., Oakdale, MN.

Visitation: 9:00-10:15 AM
Service: 10:30 AM
A dessert reception will follow. The service will be live streamed with a link posted soon.
Please be aware of road construction near church.

While we mourn the loss of a remarkable person, let us also remember the light that Woody brought into the world and the lasting legacy of kindness and compassion that he leaves behind. Let us honor his memory by continuing to live our own lives with the same steadfast, unwavering faith, dedication and empathy that he embodied every day. Woody’s spirit will forever remain in our hearts, gently guiding us with wisdom and love.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness…..And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.”
‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Funeral Services Entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson