Weigel Funeral and Cremation Service

Weigel Funeral and Cremation Service Helping Families Connect, Honor & Remember The way we say goodbye is very personal. How does one capture a life in a visitation or a service?

A life that touched your heart, and the hearts of so many others, should be celebrated. You need a place where you can meet with friends and family to share memories, shed tears, and laugh as you remember the special times. You need someone to walk with you, taking care of the details, so you are able to spend precious moments with your loved ones. Weigel Funeral and Cremation Service will help yo

u create that special experience, being sensitive to the unique needs of today’s family. Our first memories are created in a home, and our home is the perfect place to celebrate those final memories – in your own way.

Rev. Leonard A. EckrothFather Leonard Eckroth. 93, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026 at the St. Vincent's Care Cen...
06/19/2026

Rev. Leonard A. Eckroth

Father Leonard Eckroth. 93, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026 at the St. Vincent's Care Center in Bismarck.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Thursday, June 25th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mandan followed by a 7:00 PM Rosary/Prayer Service.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 AM Friday, June 26th at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Most Reverend David D. Kagan presiding. Interment will follow in Mandan Union Cemetery.

View Rev. Leonard A. Eckroth's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Kevin KautzmannKevin Kautzmann, 55, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026 in Arizona.Kevin was born on November 30, 197...
06/18/2026

Kevin Kautzmann

Kevin Kautzmann, 55, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026 in Arizona.

Kevin was born on November 30, 1970 to parents Kenneth and Shirley Kautzman. He grew up in Mandan, North Dakota, and graduated from Mandan High School in 1989. On July 10, 1992, Kevin married Julie Klein. Together they shared 24 years of marriage and raised two children, Casey and Karlee.

He spent over 30 years in the automotive industry. Customers returned to him, not only because of his knowledge and professionalism, but because they knew they would be met with kindness and honesty. His commitment to excellence earned him numerous awards from General Motors throughout his career. For him, the most meaningful part of his career was the opportunity to connect with people and form friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Kevin loved being outdoors, tending to his yard and garden, hunting with family, watching the purple martins that returned each year, and preparing Sunday meals. These simple pleasures brought comfort, joy, and meaning to his everyday life. He genuinely loved people and found great joy in helping others, always bringing warmth, compassion, and a wonderful sense of humor to those around him.

He is survived by his children, Casey (Morgan) Kautzmann and Karlee (William) Litchfield; three grandchildren, Callan Kautzmann, Scottie Kautzmann, and Hudson Litchfield; brother, Robert Kautzman; sister, JoAnne (Teresa) Kautzman; sister-in-law, Jill Kautzman; aunts, Marge (Ray) Heck, Bette Gene (Steve) Kennedy, & Mary Jane (Ken) Yetter; uncles, Dennis (Carol) Kautzman and Eugene (Cindi) Kautzman.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, brother Kent Kautzman, grandparents, and many loving aunts and uncles.

A celebration of Kevin's life will be held at 10:30 AM Monday, June 29, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Mandan, North Dakota.

Card and memorials may be sent to:

The Family of Kevin Kautzmann

4304 South Bay Dr SE

Mandan, ND 58554

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Robert BahmRobert Leo “Bob” Bahm passed away on June 16, 2026, with his wife and daughter by his side.Visitation will be...
06/17/2026

Robert Bahm

Robert Leo “Bob” Bahm passed away on June 16, 2026, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026 at Weigel Funeral Home, Mandan, ND from 5-7 PM.

Memorial services will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, June 23 at First Lutheran Church in Mandan with Rev. Phil Leer presiding.

Bob was born on August 8, 1946, to John Bahm and Lydia (Stoller) Bahm. He was raised on a ranch south of Almont, North Dakota, alongside his brother, Richard, and sisters, Kathleen and Mary Ann.

Growing up on the ranch, Bob loved the ranching life. He spent his days riding horses, working cattle, and putting up hay. He attended a rural school in Grant County through the fifth grade before the school closed. He then attended Almont Public School. During those years, Bob and his sisters lived together in a small trailer in Almont during the week while attending school.

Bob enjoyed fishing, trapping on the creek around town, and playing football and basketball with friends in Almont, where he formed many lifelong friendships. After high school, he worked alongside his father and brother on the ranch, breaking horses and helping his mother with chores.

In 1966, Bob was drafted into the United States Army. He served one year in Vietnam and was honorably discharged in 1968. Upon returning home, he resumed ranching with his father and brother. Following his father's death in 1969, Bob and his brother continued ranching, raising horses and working for other ranchers.

On August 23, 1974, Bob married Carlene Fern Nelson. In 1975, they moved to the Bahm ranch, where their daughter, Lana Marie, was born.

Bob and Carlene continued ranching in the Heart River area until 1988, when they purchased Carlene’s parents’ farm. There they continued raising cattle and hay until 2017, when they sold the cows. Bob judged many rodeos and especially enjoyed watching Lana compete in high school and amateur rodeos. He often said that “Blondie” was his pride and joy from the day she was born until his last breath.

Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, keeping his yard neat and clean, butchering, and making sausage. He was also an avid softball fan and rarely missed a game when his brother-in-law and nephews were playing.

When Bob was blessed with grandchildren, Lydia Rose and Johnathan Victor, he cherished every stage of their lives, from infancy into adulthood. He was especially proud of Lana and Justin and the way they raised Lydia and Johnathan.

Bob and Carlene worked side by side for nearly 52 years. In their younger years they loved dancing together, and in retirement they enjoyed gardening, camping, and spending evenings together with a cocktail and a few games of gin at the kitchen counter or on the patio.

Bob faced a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer with remarkable strength, toughness, and determination. May he now rest in peace.

Bob is survived by his wife, Carlene Bahm; daughter, Lana Schmidt; son-in-law, Justin Schmidt; grandchildren, Lydia Rose Schmidt and Johnathan Victor Schmidt; sister, Mary Carlson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Diane and Ken Dillman; stepfather, Nick Weinberger; numerous nieces and nephews; many friends and neighbors; and his beloved dogs, Ozzie and Tippy

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lydia Bahm; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Joe Berzel; brother, Richard Bahm; brother-in-law, Dale Carlson; parents-in-law, Victor and Gladys (Thorson) Nelson; grandparents; aunts; uncles; and many cousins.

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Wayne M. GranerWayne Michael Graner, 85, of Fort Rice, ND passed away from natural causes on June 15,2026 at Sanford Med...
06/17/2026

Wayne M. Graner

Wayne Michael Graner, 85, of Fort Rice, ND passed away from natural causes on June 15,2026 at Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck, ND.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Tuesday, June 23rd at Weigel Funeral Home followed by a 7PM prayer service with rosary and Moose ritual.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 24th at Spirit of Life Church in Mandan. Burial will follow at 12NOON at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Wayne was born in Huff, ND to Raymond and Evelyn (Schmidt) Graner on January 7, 1941. He was the oldest of 6 children and raised on the farm in Huff.

After graduating from Mandan High School in 1959 he went on to serve the US Army for four years.

He married Phyllis Berger on July 2nd, 1966. Shortly after their marriage, they took over Phyllis’s family farm in St. Anthony where they farmed and ranched for many years. Wayne loved the countryside and would often go for drives to see the farmland and rural views. He loved his farm animals, especially his horses, and attending rodeos. He had several horses and was a contractor for bucking broncs for rodeos across the state. One of his proudest moments was when he received the Saddle Bronc of the Year award in October 1990. He loved farming and ranching but due to Wayne’s asthma they sold the farm in 1992 and moved to Mandan.

They were blessed with four children Jeff, Bonnie, Rhonda and Kimberly. He was so proud of them and enjoyed playing cards, going on trips, fishing, hunting and rodeos with them when they were young.

Wayne worked various jobs and retired from the Boilermakers Union.

Wayne bought his dream home in 2008 in Fort Rice that became his forever home. Here he spent several years with Delores Beckler until she passed away on May 15, 2022. He loved to put in huge gardens and tending to that and canning. He continued to hunt, fish, and play Smear and Pinochle. He loved to get together with family and friends. Wayne always had a story to tell. After Delores’s death, he spent his days with a very special friend Sharon Usselman.

Wayne is survived by his four children, Jeff of Mandan, Bonnie (Dion) Dockter of Jamestown, Rhonda (Steve) Bondeson of Mandan, and Kimberly (Troy) Gullickson of Bismarck; 12 grandchildren, Haley, Libi, and Jurney Graner, all of Mandan, Dustin Eckroth of Shakopee, MN, Shelbie Eckroth of Bismarck, MiKenzie (Cody) Eckroth of Fargo, Brekken Dockter of Bismarck, Chandler Bondeson of Edina, MN, Christian Bondeson and Gracelyn Bondeson, both of Mandan, Dalton (Maci) Gullickson of Mandan and Lindey (Josh) Gullickson of Mandan; 5 great grandchildren, Maliya & Finley Heck, Rubi Medina-Graner, Hudson Evans, Letty Gunderson and another great grandson due in August; 3 sisters. Sharon (Danny) Barnhardt, Shirley (Carlyle) Reeff and Sandy (Dennis) Bullinger; 1 brother, Randy (Patti) Graner; and one sister-in-law, Betty Graner; several nieces and nephews and his special friend, Sharon Usselman. He is also survived by his beloved cats, Boots and Rosie.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Jerome Graner, three nieces Becky Graner, Dana Berger, and Kerry Bumgarner, brother-in-law Loren Wetch, and his special companion Delores Beckler.

Wayne also leaves behind so many special friends. All who knew him loved him for his smile, his sense of humor, and his story telling.

We love you dad and grandpa. We will love & miss you forever.

View Wayne M. Graner's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Dawn Starr (Bateman) BustosDawn Starr (Bateman) Bustos, 66, of Mandan, formerly of New Salem, passed away on Monday, Jun...
06/17/2026

Dawn Starr (Bateman) Bustos

Dawn Starr (Bateman) Bustos, 66, of Mandan, formerly of New Salem, passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026 in Bismarck.

Funeral arrangements are pending. Please check back for more information.

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Angeline "Angie" BergerWith grateful hearts for a life abundantly lived and a legacy deeply rooted in faith, family, and...
06/16/2026

Angeline "Angie" Berger

With grateful hearts for a life abundantly lived and a legacy deeply rooted in faith, family, and love, we celebrate the life of Angeline Katherine Berger, who entered into eternal rest at the age of 93.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 A.M., Thursday, June 18, 2026 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Mandan. Burial will follow in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church with a Rosary service beginning at 10:00 A.M.

Angeline was born on March 25, 1933, at the family homestead located eight miles northwest of Fort Yates, North Dakota, to Jacob and Theresa (Geiger) Schweitzer. She was raised with the values of hard work, strong faith, and devotion to family—qualities that would guide her throughout her life.

On April 28, 1949, Angeline married the love of her life, Adam Paul Berger. Together they built a home in Mandan, North Dakota, where they shared more than five decades of marriage, raising a family founded on love, faith, and unwavering commitment. Their union was blessed with seven children: Ella, Lenus, Wayne, Bill, Terry, Susan, and Adam.

Angeline found great joy in the simple blessings of life. She loved the outdoors, especially early mornings spent fishing at the family cabin on Brush Lake. Some of her happiest moments were teaching her children and grandchildren how to bait a hook, cast a line, and appreciate the beauty of God's creation. She was also known for her exceptional cooking, delighting family and friends with authentic German meals that brought everyone together around her table.

While Angeline enjoyed many things, the true highlight of her life was her family. She often described time spent with her grandchildren as "the best moments of my life." Blessed with a family of more than 70 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren—a number that continues to grow—she cherished every visit, every story, every celebration, and every opportunity to share her love and wisdom. Her legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured and inspired.

At the center of Angeline's life was her Catholic faith. She faithfully entrusted her days to God and lived as an example of Christian love and devotion. Whether praying the Holy Rosary, attending Mass, caring for her family, or sharing a quiet cup of coffee in the home she and Adam built together, her faith remained the foundation upon which her life was built. Her steadfast belief was reflected in the kindness, generosity, and grace she extended to everyone she met.

Angeline was welcomed into Heaven by her beloved husband, Adam Paul Berger; her children, Ella (Toby) Kitzman, and Wayne Berger; her parents, Jacob and Theresa Schweitzer; her grandchildren, Bobbie Jo Schmidt, Marguerite Berger, and Dena Helm; and her siblings, William (Pearl) Schweitzer and Kenneth (Diane) Schweitzer.

She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory: her children, Lenus (Alice) Berger, Bill Berger, Terry Berger, Susan Helm, and Adam (Tami) Berger; grandchildren Angie Morrell, Joe (Ronda) Emter, Tanya (Bryan) Sleight, Toby Kitzman, Dallas (Jami) Berger, Rena (Tyler) Johnson, Billie Jo Berger, Brianne Lang, Brittany (Drew) Zahn, Adam (Kasey) Berger, Austin (Michelle) Berger, Chelsea Helm-Petersen, Megan (Cody) Schneider, and Quincy Helm; along with many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, her siblings Joe (Becky) Schweitzer, Lillian Schweitzer, Bob Schweitzer, extended family members, and friends whose lives were enriched by her love.

Though her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in knowing that she has been reunited with those who went before her and has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Her life was a testament to faith, perseverance, generosity, and unconditional love. She leaves behind not only cherished memories, but a living legacy that will continue through the generations who proudly call her Grandma.

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." — Deuteronomy 33:27

Angeline's family finds comfort in the knowledge that her earthly journey has ended, but her love, faith, and example will remain in their hearts forever.

View Angeline "Angie" Berger's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Lillian SchmidtLillian Schmidt, 92, Mandan, passed away on June 13, 2026.Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursd...
06/15/2026

Lillian Schmidt

Lillian Schmidt, 92, Mandan, passed away on June 13, 2026.

Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 10:30am at Christ the King Catholic Church, Mandan, ND with Fr. Fred Harvey presiding.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 from 5pm -7pm at Weigel Funeral Home, with rosary and parish vigil held at 7pm.

Lillian R. Schmidt was born on February 12, 1934 to Raphel and Elizabeth (Stein) Hatzenbuehler. Lillian was educated in a country school about one mile from the family farm, completing through 8th grade.

Lillian met the love of her life, Simon Schmidt, at a dance at the Casaloma in New Salem, ND. After a 2-year courtship, Lillian and Simon were united in marriage on October 29th, 1951 at St. Vincent de Paul in Crown Butte, ND. After they were married, Lillian and Simon settled in to farm life.

Lillian was a natural homemaker. She helped nurture and lovingly care for their 5 children. Lillian could be found either mending and sewing or in the kitchen. People knew you could never leave Lillian’s house hungry. Anytime anyone would come over, she would make sure she would cook for them. Her family will always remember her famous German potato salad and turkey and rice dressing.

After living on the farm for 52 years, Lillian and Simon built their dream home in Mandan. One of Lillian’s special projects when she moved to town was compiling hand-written cookbooks that were given to her children and grandchildren. She passed down many of her favorite family recipes in her own handwriting. The only caveat to the cookbook was to know what mom used to measure her ingredients, her measurements were a little different since she did not have any of the “fancy” cooking tools.

Though Lillian liked to say that she never got to go anywhere, her and Simon, when they would have some downtime on the farm, would love to travel together, especially when a casino was involved. Their favorite places to visit were Reno, Las Vegas, and Atlantic City (and all of the casinos along the way). Lillian loved to find the next casino and a slot machine. Some of Lillian’s highlights were ziplining over Fremont Street in Las Vegas at the age of 82 and doing the limbo at a family wedding in Puerto Rico. Lillian actually became quite the world traveler. Her big trips included Rome, Florence, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Canada. Around the US, she was able to visit Arizona, Florida, California, New York and Niagara Falls, New Mexico, Texas, Hawaii and Alaska.

Lillian and Simon were always ready to celebrate their love for one another. They had celebrations for their 25th, 40th, and 50th wedding anniversaries. Each event was full of family, food, and plenty of dancing. After their 50th wedding anniversary, a family member told them that it was “one heck of a party.” Lillian always loved to be surrounded by family. She was always there to support them and love them in all that they did. One of Lillian’s favorite events to attend was a trip to Texas to watch her grandson play hockey. She really wasn’t a fan of sports, but fell in love with her grandson’s hockey team!

Left with fond memories are daughter, Carol (Steve) Horner, Mandan; sons, Calvin (Jackie) and Myron (Carrie), both of Mandan, and Simon Jr. (Michelle), of Bismarck; grandchildren, Miranda, Medora (Rob) Nagle, Levi (Shari), Chance (Kayla), Stone and Sawyer Schmidt and Katarina (Andrew) Johnson; great grandchildren, Harlee Leier; Madison, Rhyleigh, and Shotae Raygo; Phoenix Schuck, Krew and Knox Nagle; Mason and Chase Schmidt; Averi and Ruby Schmidt; and Ailo and Ove Johnson; great-great grandchildren Brekken and Brynlee Casson; Nova and Summer Leier; Emery and Elliot Lucier; Karter Raygo; Rhyette Raygo; Jax Raygo; siblings Jack (Helen) Hatzenbuehler, Jim (Lucille) Hatzenbuehler, Lorraine Gerhardt, and Florentine Hatzenbuehler.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Simon in 2010, son, Wesley Schmidt in 2012, siblings John, Ralph, Cecilia, Isabelle and 2 infant siblings; sister-in-law, Ida; brothers-in-law, Stanley Gerhardt, Floyd Mosbrucker, and Frank Schmidt

The family would like to thank Lisa from Elevate Nursing; Lasting Love Home Health Care, and Sanford Hospice for all the care they gave to Lillian during her last few months.

View Lillian Schmidt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Jack PulkrabekJack Pulkrabek, 84, of Mandan, ND passed away June 10th, 2026 at a Mandan care center.Visitation will be h...
06/11/2026

Jack Pulkrabek

Jack Pulkrabek, 84, of Mandan, ND passed away June 10th, 2026 at a Mandan care center.

Visitation will be held 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday, June 15th at Weigel Funeral Home with a 7:00PM rosary/prayer service.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 AM Tuesday, June 16th at Christ the King Catholic Church in Mandan. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery, south of Mandan.

Jack was born and raised on a farm south of Mandan where he went to a country school and later graduated from Mandan High School. He met the love of his life Marlene Kottsick and they were married in 1963. Together they spent 63 wonderful married years.

Jack farmed for 15 years and was awarded the Outstanding Young Farmer in 1972. Then upon moving to Mandan, he became a union boilermaker and laborer at several power plants for 35 years. Upon retiring, he enjoyed time with his family and special pet friend, Snoopy. Jack also spent many hours going to coffee with friends. He also enjoyed listening to country music, going to the Mandan Eagles for Saturday night music, and trips to Laughlin NV.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents George and Charlotte Pulkrabek, mother and father-in-law Charles and Eleanor Kottsick, son Jamie Pulkrabek, several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, & aunts and uncles.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Marlene; daughter, Wendy (Jason) Eriksmoen; sons, John (Jamie), Robert, and Steve; grandchildren, Shandi Romans, Nickolis (Natalie), Alexis, Allie, Emmalee, & Bowdin Eriksmoen.; great grandchildren, Brycen Romans, Peyton Romans, Oakes Eriksmoen, and Finley Beiswenger; several in-laws and many special friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to an animal shelter of your choice in Jack's name.

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Jason K***zJason Jerome K***z, 55, of Bismarck, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on June 7, 2026, in Bismarc...
06/10/2026

Jason K***z

Jason Jerome K***z, 55, of Bismarck, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on June 7, 2026, in Bismarck.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 PM on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan, with Pastor Dennis Huenefeld presiding. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Bismarck. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Jason was born on September 20, 1970, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Jerry and Patricia (Wichmann) K***z. He was raised and educated in Bismarck, graduating from Bismarck High School in 1989.

Jason was a natural-born wrestler. From first grade through twelfth grade, he wrestled for the MATPAC Wrestling Club. In high school, he wrestled for the BHS Demons and earned a trip to Florida with the team. One of his greatest accomplishments was taking second place at the North Dakota State Wrestling Tournament. He always said he should have taken first place because he pinned his opponent in a previous match. Jason loved wrestling and it was where he met some of his closest friends.

After high school, Jason briefly attended Jamestown College. After sustaining a knee injury, he decided to leave school. After a year off, he attended Bismarck State College, where he earned his associate degree in graphic design. He worked at Dakota Awards for many years and then at Mann Signs. Jason was very talented in his profession. He designed the Dakota Zoo logo (bear claw) as well as the graphic elements for the Bismarck Police Department.

On March 4, 2003, Jason married Heidi Hughes. From this union, their daughter, Markie Jerome K***z, was born. Jason was very proud of his daughter and she meant the world to him. Jason and Heidi later divorced in 2012.

Jason is survived by his daughter, Markie K***z; parents, Jerry and Pat K***z; brother, Aaron K***z; stepson, Brett Hughes; along with two nieces and a nephew.

Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jerome and Mary K***z, Don and Dorothy Larson, and Harold Wichmann; aunt, Cynthia Hoover; and uncle, Charles Wichmann.

Jason will be forever loved, remembered, and deeply missed.

View Jason K***z's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Nancy Svanes-OlsonNancy (Svanes) Olson, age 69, of Regan, ND, passed away June 4, 2026, at her home.Per Nancy's wishes, ...
06/08/2026

Nancy Svanes-Olson

Nancy (Svanes) Olson, age 69, of Regan, ND, passed away June 4, 2026, at her home.

Per Nancy's wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held.

Nancy Irene Svanes-Olson was born in Bismarck to Reinert and Sigfrid Svanes on November 6th, 1956, the youngest of 7 children. Growing up on the family farm, near Kintyre, she would often accompany her father out to tend the Black Angus herd, drive trucks to the field, and assist with farm chores. She was proud of her Norwegian heritage and made several trips to visit relatives in Norway on both sides of the family; the first was by ship with the entire family in 1963, the second time with her parents and sister Wanda in 1974, and the last time with her parents and husband in 1988.

She attended first grade at the Kintyre school, and second through eleventh grade in Napoleon. Nancy earned her high school diploma through a correspondence program with North Dakota State University, completing the requirements during her junior year of high school. While her older siblings were away at Oak Grove during the school year, Nancy had a close relationship with her next older sibling, Wanda. She went on to college at University of North Dakota, Moorhead State University, the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire, eventually completing her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Minnesota, Duluth in 1981. While singing in the Chamber Singers ensemble at Moorhead State she first met her future husband Donovan Olson. They were married on July 17, 1981 and settled in Bismarck. Three years later they moved to their present home in Regan.

Upon returning to North Dakota, she continued her career serving those in need at several Bismarck-Mandan facilities including the Charles Hall group home, St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, the Baptist Home, and with Lutheran Social Services. Her final job was with Bismarck Public Schools working as a Paraeducator at Bismarck High, Solheim, Miller, and Will-Moore elementary schools.

She expressed her passion for music by playing oboe and English horn with the Bismarck Symphony, Missouri Valley Chamber Orchestra, West River Winds, Bismarck Elks band, and by teaching oboe at Mandan Public Schools. She was also a capable pianist, accompanying students while she was teaching music at Regan School. She was an avid collector of dishware, pottery, and musical instruments including her prized guitars (6 and 12 string), a mandolin, violin, and flute.

Nancy and Donovan welcomed the birth of their only child, Hannah, on April 29, 1991. Hannah was fortunate to have a stay-at- home mom for the first formative years; They bonded over art projects, singing, gardening, cooking, and caring for their cats. Once Regan School closed, Hannah enrolled in Bismarck Public schools from years 7-12; While the commute was long, the time together allowed them to grow closer.

Dealing with chronic pain made Nancy decide to retire from her job with BPS in 2018. Her last years were highlighted by trips to the Red River Valley to visit Hannah and her husband Clay, and by spending many hours chilling with Netflix and playing with their herd of cats. She passed away in her sleep on June 4th following a fall at home. She is survived by her husband Donovan and daughter Hannah, by her brother Rolf Svanes and sister Wanda Parr, and by many Svanes, Blixt, Weiss, Parr, Olson, and Schleif nieces and nephews. Nancy was preceded in death by her father Reinert Svanes, mother Sigfrid (Friestad) Svanes, siblings Glenn Ole Svanes, Randi Blixt, Linda Weiss, and Glenn Karl Svanes.

During her 69 years, Nancy touched countless lives as a caregiver, colleague, educator, friend, and family member. Her kindness, talents, and dedication to others left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by family, friends, former students, and all whose lives she enriched.

View Nancy Olson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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309 4th Avenue NW
Mandan, ND
58554

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