Enderlin, North Dakota – Community Grieves Three Lives Lost in Devastating Tornado
ENDERLIN, N.D. — Heartbreak ripples through the small town of Enderlin following a deadly tornado that swept through the area on Friday, claiming the lives of three cherished residents. On Sunday evening, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office released the names of the victims, all of whom were well-known and deeply loved within the community:
- Michael Dalton Dehn, 73, of Enderlin
- Katherine Ann Pfaff-Dehn, 73, of Enderlin
- Marcario Machuca Lucio, 89, of Enderlin
Authorities confirmed the trio lost their lives as a result of the powerful storm system that struck Enderlin late Friday, leveling homes and leaving widespread damage in its wake. Emergency crews and first responders rushed to the scene as soon as it was safe to do so, navigating through the wreckage to locate survivors and assess the extent of the devastation.
Remembering the Lives Lost
Michael and Katherine Dehn were lifelong partners and pillars of the community. Known for their warmth, generosity, and quiet strength, the couple were deeply involved in town life. Whether attending local gatherings, lending a helping hand to neighbors, or simply sharing friendly conversations on their porch, the Dehns were the heart and soul of their neighborhood.
Marcario Machuca Lucio, age 89, was also a treasured member of the Enderlin community. Admired for his resilience and gentle spirit, Marcario brought joy and inspiration to all who knew him. A man of few words but boundless heart, he lived a life marked by humility, family values, and an unwavering connection to the town he called home for decades.
Community and Official Response
In a heartfelt statement issued Sunday, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office offered condolences to the grieving families and the entire Enderlin community:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in this weekend’s storm. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, friends, and the broader community affected by this devastating event.”
Local emergency services, alongside state agencies and volunteers, have been working tirelessly to provide aid, clear debris, and offer shelter and support to those displaced by the tornado. Several organizations are also collecting donations to assist impacted families as they begin the difficult process of recovery.
Governor Doug Burgum addressed the tragedy, offering sympathy and support:
“Our hearts go out to the people of Enderlin during this unimaginably difficult time. We are committed to providing all necessary resources to help this community heal and rebuild.”
A Town United in Mourning
In the wake of this tragedy, Enderlin residents are coming together to support one another. Candlelight vigils and community prayer services are being planned in honor of the victims. Makeshift memorials with flowers, notes, and photographs have already begun appearing near the sites of destruction—touching tributes to the lives lost.
While the path to healing will be long, the strength and solidarity of this small town are already on display. As one resident shared, “We may be a small town, but our hearts are big. We’ll get through this the same way we’ve always done—together.”
The loss of Michael and Katherine Dehn and Marcario Lucio is a profound one, felt by every corner of Enderlin. Their memory will live on through the love they shared and the legacy they leave behind.