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Bismarck Funeral Home & Crematory, 3723 Lockport Street, Bismarck, ND (2025)

09/09/2025

Samuel W. McQuade Jr.

Our dad wrote his own obituary. It read as follows:

Sam McQuade lived and then Sam McQuade died.

That’s it. That’s what he wanted to say. The irony, of course, is that if you knew Sam McQuade, you knew he was a natural-born storyteller. So much so that we once encouraged him to write it all down in a book. He did. Then he wrote six more. And he would have kept going if his body hadn’t started to fail him.

If he were here right now, he’d probably say, “Don’t play high school football”—as if that was the simple answer to all his problems.

But he didn’t like obituaries. We’re not sure why he didn’t want to take one more opportunity to tell one last good story. But there you have it. So, we’ll respect his wishes by keeping it short—but we do have a few things to say.

Sam McQuade did live, and he lived well. He was often the life of the party, loved to travel, and loved going out to dinner with family and friends, telling all his jokes and stories. In French, we call that a bon vivant. And if you want to read all about his life, we encourage you to order one of his books—and dig in. Or order all seven. The proceeds go to charity.

Fair warning: there will be embellishments. There will be inaccuracies. Our mom, who preceded him in death in January of 2023, will be rolling her eyes somewhere, saying he’s full of something. But that’s all part of the fun—and it will tell you so much about who he was to all of us left here, trying (and failing miserably) to fill the void.

He’s leaving behind so many who loved him: his two daughters (Shannon and Kelly), their spouses (Dale and James), his beloved grandkids (Samantha, Cameron, Ian, Lexi, Cullen, and Nevin), and his great-grandson (Rory). He’s also leaving behind countless friends who shared his love of the arts, his community, travel, and truly living life.

His legacy of giving lives on through the Sam McQuade Sr. Charity Softball Tournament and many other charities. And, of course, he’s leaving behind his stories—embellishments and all. For that, we are so grateful.

If you would like to pay your respects, please make a donation to the McQuade Softball Charities. Checks can be made out to McQuade Softball Charities and mailed to 1150 Industrial Drive, Bismarck, ND 58501.

View Samuel W. McQuade Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/08/2025

Theresa T. Schumacher

Theresa T. Schumacher, 86, Bismarck passed away Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Baptist Health.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, September 11 at 10:00 AM at St. Anne Catholic Church with Father John Paul Gardner presiding. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 10, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Bismarck Funeral Home, with a Rosary beginning at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service.

Theresa was born July 22, 1939, in Linton to Ben and Denisia (Dosch) Hulm.

She is survived by her 7 children, Randy (Deb) Schumacher of Linton, Rodney (Sherry) Schumacher of Loveland, CO, Cindy Schumacher, Corrine (Chuck) Pinks, Carla (Jim) Kelsch, Rick Schumacher all of Bismarck and Connie Schumacher of Mandan; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents; ex-husband Tony, two brothers, Larry and Alvin Hulm.

To share memories with the family and sign the online guestbook, go to www.bismarckfuneralhome.com

View Theresa T. Schumacher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/08/2025

Lillian Wald

Lillian (Feist) Wald passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, one day shy of her 98th birthday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Bismarck, ND. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Bismarck, ND.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 9 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Bismarck Funeral Home, with a Rosary And Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the church.

Lillian was born to Anton A. Feist and Elizabeth (Jangula) Feist at home on a farm north of Zeeland, ND on September 5, 1927. She was the oldest of seven children. She was raised on the farm and was the inside helper, doing the baking and cooking and baking bread for the family weekly. She attended a rural school near Zeeland through the 8th grade, then helped out with different families in the area, usually to help out with a new baby. She met her husband to be, Adam E. Wald, at a barn dance. They were married on October 19, 1949 at St. John's Catholic Church, rural Zeeland. They were married for 51 years. They lived and farmed with Adam's parents in the St. Michael's area for a few years, moved to St. Paul, MN for a short time, then moved to Bismarck in 1954. In 1967 they built their own house and made it their home for the next 42 years. Lillian worked as a seamstress out of her home for many years and also worked outside of the home for a short time. She loved doing crafts, reading, and hosting coffee parties. She was an ace at pinochle, made many quilts, and walked many miles at Kirkwood Mall, followed by having coffee with fellow walkers. Like many quilters, she learned that she had lots of extra fabric to deal with when she was ready to downsize! "Too much fabric, too little time." She would tell you that she didn't love to cook, but her oil and vinegar potato salad, chicken and rice, homemade buns, and frozen peanut butter pie were the best, and they remain family favorites. She delivered Meals on Wheels, was a member of St. Anne Church and the St. Anne Women's Guild for many years. In 2009 she decided on her own that it was time to leave her house and moved to Marillac Manor, Bismarck, and lived there until 2021, when she moved to St. Vincent's at age 94. She loved living at the Manor where she could attend daily Mass and Rosary, which remained very important to her up until her last few days. She also played cards daily, set MANY puzzles, had her own little garden, and walked a lot miles in the hallways for exercise.

Mourning Lillian's passing are her children and their spouses, Shirley and Dennis Wetzel, Rod and Deb Wald, Karen and Adrian Jacobs, and Joell and Todd Burian, all of Bismarck; Arlene and Lee Garner, Dilworth, MN; Lorie and Tom Andres, Panama City Beach, FL; Lila and Pat Jamison, Apple Valley, MN; and Brian and Barb Wald, Forest Lake, MN; 18 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, with twins arriving in October. Her surviving siblings are Alex Feist (Julia deceased), Gloria Zacher (Valentine deceased), Francis and Delores Feist, and Johanna and Leo Heier. Surviving in-laws are Millicent Wald (Sylvester deceased), Linda Feist (Tom deceased), Margie and Arlen Vonesh, and Christine Dosch (Henry deceased). She also has many surviving nieces and nephews.

Preceding Lillian in death were her parents; her husband, Adam; sister, Ella Violet; brother, Tom Feist; and in-laws, Elizabeth and John Ell, Conrad, Jr and Alvina Wald, Markus and Elizabeth Wald, Phyllis and Adam A. Wald, Francis and Irene Wald, Dorothy Wald, and Helen and James Schmidt.

In memory of Lillian, please make any donations to St. Vincent's Chapel.

Lillians's family extends a sincere thank you to the staff at Marillac Manor and to the staff at St. Vincent's for all that you did for her during the last years of her life, along with a very special thank you to Sr. Anna Rose, Fr. Patrick, Deacon Jerry, and Bill for giving Mom the spiritual care that meant so much to her.

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09/05/2025

Jeanette "Jeanne" Kudrna

Jeanette "Jeanne" Kudrna passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at St. Alexius Medical Center with her family by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Bismarck, ND. Visitation will be Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. CT follow by Rosary/Vigil at 6:00 p.m. CT all at Bismarck Funeral Home (3723 Lockport Street) Bismarck ND. Private family burial services will be held at a later time.

Jeanette Kudrna was born to Frank and Clementine (Frank) Huschka on August 17, 1940. She grew up in South Heart, ND and graduated from South Heart High School in 1958. Jeanette married her high school sweetheart, Robert "Bob" Kudrna on May 22, 1961, in Dickinson. They had three children: Lori, Wes and Brad.

Jeanette started her working career with the Soil Conservation Service in Dickinson in 1958 and worked until she and Bob moved to Hettinger in 1964. After taking some time off to raise her family, she started working at Hettinger Community Hospital, now West River Health Services, as Administrative Secretary in 1978 and Human Resource Manager beginning in 1985. She retired from this position in 2001. Realizing that she was not quite ready for full retirement, she started working as Secretary for Holy Trinity Catholic Church and held this position for seven years.

Jeanne’s faith was of utmost importance to her. She believed strongly in the power of prayer which carried her through life’s challenges. She served on the Holy Trinity Council as a board member and later as Trustee; she also served as Eucharistic Minister.

She cherished the time spent with her family and grandchildren. She and Bob enjoyed their cabin home on Lake Sakakawea and spent most summer weekends there with family and friends. Jeanne enjoyed golfing, fishing, baking, and gardening. She loved playing cards with family and friends and playing games on her I-pad. Jeanne loved the tv show “Murder She Wrote” and the Game Show network.

Jeanne will forever be missed by her loving husband, Bob; her daughter Lori (Paul) Blees and grandsons Jordan (Nicole) and Brett; her son Wes (Ann) and grandchildren Caden, Blaise, Avery, Zander, Brynn and Cole; and her son Brad (Bonnie Schneider), one great-granddaughter Paisley Blees; her sisters, Lorraine (John) Czeck and Leona Novotny and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Clementine Huschka, brother-in-law Ed Novotny, and nephews Donald Czech, Jeffrey Czech and Dean Novotny.

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09/03/2025

Elizabeth "Ellie" Lucia Caro

Elizabeth Lucia Caro, lovingly known as Ellie, passed away at home in the arms of her parents on the evening of August 28, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Church of St. Anne with Father Kregg Hochhalter presiding. Visitation will be held at the Bismarck Funeral Home on Friday, September 5 from 5-7 PM with a rosary/vigil at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue at Church of St. Anne one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bismarck.

Ellie was born on June 3, 2022 in Springfield, Tennessee. Though she only lived for three short years, she made a very large impact on the people close to her.

Ellie lived in Fort Campbell, KY for the first year of her life before moving to North Dakota. Little did she know, she was to meet and grow with her best friend. Ellie started spending time with her cousin, Henry, when he was only a few months old. They spent almost every day together and became the best of “buddies.” Even towards the end of her life, Ellie would use all of her strength and energy to reach for her friend.

Elizabeth is the cherished daughter of Gabriel and Anne Caro and beloved sister of Bernadette Caro. She is so deeply loved by all of her family. Elizabeth is welcomed into Heaven by her Grandpa Terry.

Diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma in late March, Ellie’s family was made aware of her prognosis and spent her remaining 5 months together as a family. Ellie spent 7 weeks in Fargo undergoing radiation treatment, finishing right after her birthday. She celebrated her third birthday with Make A Wish, who granted her wish of a brand new playroom. Shortly after, Ellie had to have emergency surgery to drain fluid that had built up in her brain. She quickly recovered and was able to have a few good weeks before her condition worsened again. Ellie slowly lost all neurological function starting with her ability to eat, ability to walk, and eventually her ability to talk and breath. Though this cancer was so aggressive and the course of treatment was strenuous, Ellie fought up until her very last moment.

Her love for animals and the zoo was known by everyone around her. She loved to feed the animals, but only “the littles” not “the bigs.” Her favorite animals to feed were the goats and the ducks. Thanks to Make A Wish ND, Ellie was also able to feed a red panda and camels.

Ellie was quite advanced and loved to be challenged. She enjoyed solving puzzles and participating in her sister’s homeschooling. People listened to Ellie, she spoke very eloquently and with much authority. Ellie was also very quick witted and loved to make everyone laugh. Wise and emotionally aware, Ellie had a heart that was kind, empathetic, altruistic, selfless, and deeply caring.

Ellie’s family asks in lieu of flowers, to please consider donating to one of the following: Make A Wish North Dakota, Ronald McDonald of the Red River Valley (Fargo), Landon’s Light Foundation, and the Church of Saint Anne Bismarck, ND. Each of these organizations played a major role in supporting the Caro family throughout Ellie’s journey. The Caro family also thanks everyone who supported them throughout Ellie’s cancer diagnosis: everyone who prayed for Ellie, donated to her Go Fund Me, signed up to bring over meals, and everyone who reached out to the family in their time of need.

Her father’s final words to Ellie before she took her last breath were: “Everything is okay, Ellie. You can go to Jesus and Mary now.” Her mother had often spoken to her about Heaven and life after death. Ellie was prepared to go Home, and now she is preparing the way for her family to join her.

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09/03/2025

Wayne Zahn

Wayne Zahn rode off into the sunset for the las time on August 22, 2025, at the age of 74.

This ole boy... cowboy through and through. Talked it and walked it too. Even in his last years, that gruff and tough manner, did not hold anything back. If he feared anything, no one would ever know. The epitome of 'grab life by the horns'; he had a passion for riding bulls, rodeos, training horses, and hunting them good dogs. He taught generations how to ride, hunt, respect the land, and how to live with integrity.

He sure could tell a good story and made some great friends along the way. Might not have kept them all, but I would bet, not one ever forgot their encounter. He was loud, boisterous, and loved to sing old cowboy songs. He was a teacher of life. You might not always like the lesson, but you likely would not forget.

Goodbye to one of a kind, the last of his kind. Tip of a hat on your last ride. Ride easy cowboy. You have earned your rest.

Wayne is survived by his beloved children, grandchildren, an aunt, a sister, a handful of cousins, nieces/nephews, and good ole boys and gals proud to call him friend. He now rests in heaven with his beloved Mom and many that passed before him.

A celebration of life may be held at a later date. Until then, please share your best stories/memories with his children. They would surely love to hear them!

I'm a cowboy in heaven; like I always prayed to be, I'm a cowboy in heaven; still in awe at all I see. My life began the day I died, cause now here on the other side, I'm a cowboy in heaven; but why would God do this for me. Amen.

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09/03/2025

Peter J. Welk

Peter J. Welk, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, with family at his side, hours before his 96th birthday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, ND.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 8, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at Bismarck Funeral Home, with a Rosary and Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

Peter was born August 31, 1929, in Rugby, North Dakota to August and Johanna (Sitter) Welk. He grew up in Minot graduating from St. Leo’s High School in 1947. He and a group of his closest friends joined the Army in June 1947 to November 1948 and again in September 1950 to December 1951. He graduated from Minot State College with a degree in Business Education in June 1954.

He joined Dakota National Bank (Wells Fargo) in June 1954. In January of 1959, Peter joined the Northwest Bancorporation Credit Department in Minneapolis as a credit analyst until returning to Dakota National in October 1960 as Vice President/Commercial Loans. He was a 1963 graduate of the Wisconsin School of Banking and a founding member of the Bismarck Chapter of the American Institute of Banking, completing and teaching a number of courses.

Peter began his employment with the Gold Seal Company in January 1969 as Treasurer. He was elected to the Board of Directors and named Vice President of Finance and Administration in March of 1974. This was a position he held until the company was sold in late 1986.

He served as Executive Director of Health Care United, Inc. from January 1987 to his retirement in May 1988. Health Care United played a leading role in the establishment of the Regional MRI Center as a joint venture in the medical community.

Peter married Beulah “Jo” Baker in October of 1954, and they had six children-3 girls and 3 boys. Jo passed away in October of 1963. Peter married Eileen Haider in May 1980.

He was active in the community as a volunteer with a long-term association with the Dakota Zoo where he served on the board as president, long time secretary and participated in the leadership of a number of fund drives. He was the recipient of the “Dakota Zoo Buffalo Award” in 1989 for going “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty” for the good of the Dakota Zoo. His community involvement included Bismarck Chambers, United Way Board, Urban Renewal Commission, YMCA Board of Trustees, Chair of the St. Mary’s High School Carnival Executive Committee, Cathedral Parish and Grade School Board, Chairman of the St. Alexius Medical Center Board. North Dakota Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Med Center One and St. Alexius Hospice, Civic Arena Promotion, Inc., Charles Hall Youth Services Mentor, and Civic Center Advisory Committee. In 1998, he spent two weeks in Guatemala with the God’s Child Project. He was a member of the Bismarck Kiwanis Club, University of Mary Presidents Club, American Legion, AMVETS, Bismarck Elks and Cathedral of the Holy Spirit.

His involvement in the local running community started in the early 1970’s and he participated in over 250 road races. He ran his first marathon in New York at age 52 and his final marathon was in Bismarck at age 65 in 1994. This often is referred to as the hottest of all the Bismarck Marathons. He continued to participate in road races through 2005. He was inducted into the Bismarck YMCA Hall of Fame in 2005. He continued to “jog” the streets and trails of Bismarck in his “MR. BUBBLE” shirt for many years.

He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and for many years made an annual trip to Green Bay for a game.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen; his five children, Kelli of Phoenix, James “Gus” of Fargo, Richard of Dickinson, Robert of Bismarck and Konni (Leroy) of Minneapolis; four grandchildren, Elizabeth Pickard of Indianapolis, Mandy (Jamie) Stephens of Phoenix, Hallie (Heath) Knuth of Bismarck, Xavier Vasquesz of Minneapolis; three great grandchildren, Mila, Robbie and Lena as well as many nieces and nephews.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Jo; daughter, Kerri Anne Welk; sisters, Eleanor (Jim) Rainwater and Agatha (Richard) Ebenschweiger.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.

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08/29/2025

Gloria Peterson

Gloria Peterson, 85, Bismarck, passed away on August 29, 2025 while in hospice care.

Gloria was born on January 24, 1940 in Kenmare, ND to Lawrence and Margaret Mott. She graduated from Sherwood High School in 1958.

Gloria spent the bulk of her work career working for Melroe in Bismarck.

She is survived by her son, Steve (Paulette) Peterson of Bismarck; daughters, Lori Lane of Acworth, GA and Dawn Peterson (Mike Duffey) of San Diego, CA as well as seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

No memorial service will be held.

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08/25/2025

Douglas Stull

In Loving Memory of Douglas Mac Stull

Douglas "Doug" Mac Stull, a man who truly lived life on his own terms, passed away on August 14, 2025, at the age of 74. Born in Beach, North Dakota, on April 24, 1951, Doug was a fun-loving man with a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor. His lifelong friends and family will always remember his loud, boisterous laugh. Doug’s life was defined by his friendships and family.

After graduating from high school, he earned a degree in Behavioral Psychology from Heron State University, Heron, South Dakota. He became a counselor at Home on the Range for Boys and later moved on to become a conductor with the Burlington Northern Railroad for nearly 40 years.

His love for fishing led him to purchase a cabin in Fort Rice, ND, where he could fish the Missouri River and be with his family and friends. “Papa Doug”, as his grandkids called him, was known for his white beard, bib overalls and tie-dyed t-shirts. He enjoyed a good time with those he cared about most and will be sorely missed by all who knew him, from the friends who waved and talked to him everywhere he went to his family who knew his tough exterior hid a deep and boundless love.

He is survived by his children, Riley (Keleah) and Richard; his grandchildren, Kayde and Kael; his sisters, Carol, Charlys, Layne, and Kim; and his former spouse, Alison. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Vivian, and his siblings, Billie Jean, Kellys Jo, and Jack.

As per his wishes, Doug will be cremated. A celebration of his life and family reunion will be held at the beginning of summer 2026, in place of a traditional funeral service. Details on the location will be shared closer to the date, and all who loved Doug are welcome to join in remembering him.

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08/25/2025

Joyce Barkie

Joyce Arlene Kroll Barkie passed away at her home on August 11, 2025, from natural causes. She was 79 years old.

Joyce was born on June 29, 1946, in Denison, Iowa, to Wilber and Ruby Kroll. She was raised in Nebraska and graduated from Northwest High School in Grand Island. At age 17, while working at a café in Concordia, Kansas, she met Roger Noftsker. Their connection was instant, and the two married in December 1963 in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Joyce and Roger moved to Baker, Montana, and welcomed two sons: Darin in 1965 and Brian in 1966. Though their marriage ended in 1981, Joyce remained a devoted and loving mother.

In 1983, she moved to Williston, North Dakota, where she met Jerry Barkie. They were married on April 27, 1993, and made Williston their home for many years.

Joyce was a hardworking and dedicated professional. She spent many years at First National Bank and later worked for Williston Public Works before retiring early. After retirement, she moved to Bismarck, ND, where she made many new friends, joined a social club, and found joy in cooking for the residents in her building.

Joyce was known far and wide for her culinary talents. She loved cooking for others and

sharing her favorite recipes. She treasured her close friendships, particularly with Melissa, Ann B., and Delores. Her signature look featured cowboy boots and western attire, and she took great pride in decorating her home in that style. She was an active member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Pheasants Forever, and The Moose Lodge. She also loved the quiet moments—solving Sudoku puzzles, and doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joyce is survived by her sons, Darin (Wanda) Noftsker of Gillette, WY, and Brian Noftsker of Circle, MT; stepdaughter Teresa Schroeder of Kenmare, ND. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Ralynn (Kyle) Rogge, Tara Noftsker, Andrea (James) Dyson, Erica (Jed) Jespersen, Samuel Noftsker, McKenzie Schroeder, and Paxton Schroeder; and ten great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilber and Ruby Kroll; her brother, Richard “Rick” Kroll; her former spouse, Roger Noftsker; her late husband, Jerry Barkie; her stepson Darren “Chewy” Barkie; and daughter-in-law Cheri Noftsker.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no formal funeral. Joyce chose to donate her body to the University of North Dakota School of Medicine to further scientific research. A memorial celebration of her life will be held later this fall in Williston, North Dakota.

Joyce's legacy is one of fierce love for her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

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08/25/2025

Leonard Benfiet

Leonard (Benny) Benefit, 86, of Bismarck passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center surrounded by his family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM with a Rosary prior to the service at Ascension Catholic Church. Burial will follow at 1:00 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND. Family will be greeting friends and relatives one hour prior to the service.

Leonard was born to Steve and Mary (Thomas) Benefit on April 22, 1939, at St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck. He graduated from Bismarck High School in 1958. He joined the National Guard before his senior year of high school and proudly served for 36 years until his retirement in 1993 at the rank of MSgt.

Leonard married Dianne Marie Mormann on Aug 27, 1966. They enjoyed 42 wonderful years together. They loved to spend their time camping and fishing. Leonard also enjoyed time with his brother, Karry, hunting and fishing.

Leonard is survived by his brother, Karry Benfiet; sister-in-law, Phyllis Mormann; nephews, Beau Benfiet and Brett Benfiet, Reed Vanderbur; nieces, Tracy (Vanderbur) Balzer, Wendy (Vanderbur) Bailey; great nephews, Kyler Benfiet, Logan Benfiet, Jaxson Benfiet, Ryker Benfiet; great nieces, Ava Benfiet, Kelsey Howard and family, Langley Burton and family; cousin, Michelle Feneis and family; and best friends, Ron Steininger and the Peter and Marlys Wang family: Orville, Robert, James and Susan (Long) and their families.

Leonard is predeceased by his beloved wife, Dianne; his sister Sharon Benfiet; parents, Steve and Mary Benfiet; sister-in-law, Marlene (Mormann) Vanderbur.

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08/25/2025

Marlys Fricke

Marlys Fricke, 84, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at St. Alexius Medical Center in Bismarck, ND. Those wanting to celebrate her life are encouraged to share a good chat with a friend over a puzzle.

Marlys was born at home in Baldwin, ND to Dorothy (Schlittenhardt) and Adolph Schuler. Marlys, the second born of fraternal twins, was considerably smaller than her brother when born. In fact, she was so small that she was placed in a bread pan and settled in the oven to keep her warm. While small, Marlys had a feisty spirit from birth that she carried with her throughout her life.

Marlys grew up on a farm in Baldwin alongside her six siblings. She began her education in a single-room schoolhouse, where she had many adventures with her family, including a bike run in with her brother resulting in a broken leg. Marlys continued her secondary education and eventually went on to graduate from Bismarck High School. In September 1960, she married Ronald Fricke. Together, they raised six children, Marty (1961), Timothy (1962), Twila (1964), Matthew (1970), Tonia (1973) and Tara (1975), on the family farm near Baldwin. Marlys loved to cook, took pride in raising a large garden, and milked cows daily on top of raising her children. Outside the farm, Marlys thrived as an independent Tupperware consultant, receiving recognition as a top seller in her region.

Marlys was a skilled painter and subcontractor. She was very proud about owning and operating “MF Painting,” a painting, staining and wallpapering business for over 40 years. Her work was a great source of pride, treating others’ homes as if they were her own. Her meticulous, high caliber work was easily recognized. In fact, in newer dictionaries, when you look at examples under the phrase “hard worker,” it is rumored there is a picture of Marlys painting a home and outworking anyone else. If you ended up in her way or on her bad side, you’d know it - hearing a curse word (or five) from Marlys on the job site! Work was a source of joy for Marlys, and she wasn’t familiar with the term “day off”. Aside from work, Marlys enjoyed spending time with family, visiting, telling stories, giving advice (even unsolicited) and sharing a laugh. She was quite the conversationalist, including many opinionated takes on a variety of subjects. While in her company, you needed to budget enough time to listen to her position on any topic. She wasn’t concise, but she spoke with gusto. Conversations with Marlys were one of a kind. Marlys had a knack for home decorating and a keen sense of style. She was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren, and took great delight in watching her grandchildren grow, blossom and raise their own families. She also loved animals and considered them family, holding a special place for them in her heart. Marlys was extremely thoughtful and was always first to remember a birthday or special occasion and reaching out to spread well wishes. When visiting her home, the Home Shopping Network was often on, meaning you’d probably get a very unique, yet practical gift for the next holiday. When she wasn’t watching HSN, Marlys would enjoy the comedy of Golden Girls, the drama of the Lifetime network, or plan her next meal after watching Food Network. With the TV on in the background, Marlys would often work on puzzles to keep her mind sharp, and she’d encourage you to help out when visiting. Marlys was an immensely hardworking and thoughtful woman. She touched so many lives with her unique personality and big heart. She will be greatly missed. Marlys and her family are truly grateful for the extraordinary quality of care and kindness she received during her time at St. Alexius Medical Center.

Marlys is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Eldest daughter Twila and husband Tim Thompson, their oldest daughter Tomi Thompson, husband Anders Johnson, and their newborn daughter Beni; and youngest daughter Tandi Thompson. Youngest son Matthew and wife Rebecca Fricke, their daughter Emma and husband Kyle Schatz, and their sons Eli and Samuel Fricke. Middle daughter Tonia Dodds, her step-daughter Ivy Castaneda and husband Adrian and young daughter Sterling, and her step-sons Fox and Jackson Dodds. Youngest daughter Tara Tomes and her daughters Bryn and Aida Tomes. Grandson Justin and his wife Marisa Fricke and their children Jake, Josh, Jolie and Jocelyn Fricke. Granddaughter Ariane Fricke. Grandson Jordan Fricke and his partner Nino San. Great-granddaughters Carter and Quinn Frank (mother Raelynn Fricke). Along with a beloved extended family, including many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.

Marlys was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and her two sons Marty and Timothy, granddaughter Raelynn Fricke and son-in-law Tom Dodds. Per Marlys’ wishes, no services will be held.

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