Alvin Scott Dyrud

Alvin Scott Dyrud, age 71, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, with his loving family by his side. He was born on June 6th, 1954, in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, to the late Scott Jens and Josephine Marie (McDaniel) Dyrud. Alvin spent the majority of his life in the Sauk City area before relocating to Waupaca in 2005. He will be remembered for his passionate love for dogs, especially Rocky and Gunner. He was also an avid sports fan and loved cheering on his favorite local teams. Alvin held many different titles throughout his life, but none did he hold more dear than “Grandpa.” As a grandfather to 19 grandchildren, nothing made him happier than simply being with them.

Alvin was a friend to all who knew him and loved spending time with those he cherished. Whether he was sitting on the patio visiting with friends, attending the annual cousins' campout, or taking his daily slow ride through the countryside to look for wildlife, he enjoyed the simple things in life. He always offered a word of advice in the right season and truly made life better for everyone around him. His big heart, kind soul, and warm presence made people feel welcome, safe, and cared for. He was the type of man who would help anyone without asking for anything in return. He showed strength through hard work, love through his actions, and wisdom through the way he treated people. He could always make people laugh, and gave advice when it was needed.  The memories, lessons, and time we’ve shared with him will be held dear to our hearts. The impact he made on everyone around him will forever remain, and his love, character, and way of life will continue through the people who knew him.

Grandpa Dyrud will be deeply missed by his grandchildren; Charlie, Corrisa, Andrew Hansen;  Alexus, Spencer, Westin, and Liana Hansen; Austin (Sydney) Smith-Hansen, Cyrus (fiancée Kaycee), Cayden, and Marissa Hansen; Riley Wolfe, Millie Hansen; Nevaeh Bestul, Ayden Nelson, Colton, and Sophia Bestul; and Ethan and Emma Bestul.

Alvin also leaves behind his deeply loved step-sons and daughter-in-laws: Mitch Hansen of Waupaca; Matt (Ashley) Hansen of Oakfield; Mark (Andrea) Hansen of Waupaca; Mike (Michele) Hansen of Little Chute; Jamie (Cortney) Bestul of Waupaca; and Kevin (Sam) Bestul of Waupaca.

Alvin is further survived by his brothers: Patrick (Susan) O'Neil of Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, and Jeff (Fawn) Dyrud of Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin; and his sisters: Kathy (Bill) Sullivan of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Suzie (Cliff) Wilkinson of Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Kenneth Dyrud; his sisters, Sandra O’Neil and Sherry Fisher; and his brother-in-law, Donny Fisher.

The family wishes to extend our deepest gratitude to the neighbors and friends who found and cared for Alvin in his time of need. We also offer a heartfelt thanks to the outstanding medical staff at the ThedaCare Medical Center - Waupaca  and the Neenah ICU. Their tireless efforts, dedicated care, and overwhelming love and compassion—not only for Alvin but for our entire family—have meant the world to us and will not be forgotten. 

Per Alvin’s request, no formal funeral service will be held. His true wish was to have everyone gather together to instead celebrate. We will honor his wish with a Celebration of Life later this fall. Further details regarding the date, time, and location will be shared once finalized. 

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