Bernette Rempfer

Bernette Ann Rempfer, 91, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 28, 2025. Bernette was born on February 8, 1934 to Ben and Barbara (Holzer) Wolf, Zeeland, ND. She was the second of seven children and enjoyed all the aspects of growing up in a small town. Upon graduating from high school in 1952, Bernette attended college in Ellendale, ND and earned her degree in teaching. She taught in country schools, Bismarck, ND and eventually went on to co-own a private kindergarten. She loved teaching and still has many students singing her praises today. Bernette and Ron were married on May 30, 1959 and settled in Jamestown, ND. They had one daughter, Mary, and were devoted parents to her throughout their lives. After Bernette ended her teaching career, she worked for High Acres Nursing Home in the Activity Department. She took great pride in bringing joy to the residents and made a difference in so many lives while she was there. Bernette was involved in the St. James Catholic Church Women's Circle and many other associations and was an avid fan of the Jamestown High School Girl's Basketball team.
After retirement, Bernette and Ron spent their winters in Mesa, AZ, where they made many friends and enjoyed entertaining visitors from out of town. After twelve years, Bernette and Ron made the tough decision to move from Jamestown to West Fargo, ND. They had been such an active part of the Jamestown community and had made so many dear friends, especially on 5th Avenue, that it was hard for them to leave. After the move, Bernette stayed active by volunteering at the nearby nursing home and walking with Ron every morning at the West Acre's Mall. Once again, they made close friends, something they thrived in doing.
Bernette and Ron moved to Bel Rae Senior Living in Mounds View, in 2018 to be closer to their daughter. As was typical, she flourished in her environment and became an ambassador for new residents. She took her position seriously and was always looking for someone who needed a lift in their spirits or her help. She liked to go into the memory care unit to visit with the residents to brighten their day. Up to a little over a month ago, Bernette was delivering newspapers to the residents in the community.
Bernette is survived by her daughter, Mary Rempfer (Scott Wikstrom); her sisters, Barbara Ireland (Bob); Kathy Prothe; Alice Rypkema (Ed); sister-in-law, Helen Wolf; brothers-in-law Reinie Uhlich, Ben Sims, and many nieces and nephews, and so many friends.
Bernette was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Ron, her parents Ben and Barbara Wolf, sisters Marie Sims and Ann (Unna) Uhlich, her brother Raymond (Buster) Wolf and her brother-in-law, Melvin Prothe.
She was known for being a wonderful mother, a devout Catholic, an artist, a teacher, a maker of many, many friends, crafter and for giving the BEST hugs. She has left a hole in our hearts and will be deeply missed by many.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 10:00 am at St. Andrews Catholic Church in Zeeland, ND. In lieu of flowers, please designate memorials to St. Andrews Cemetery Fund.