Mary E. Nerem

Mary Nerem, 78, Deering, ND, passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Trinity Hospital in Minot.
Mary Elizabeth Brunner was born September 16, 1947, the daughter of Sebastian "Ole" and Helen (Eberle) Brunner, in Minot. She attended school in Deering through the 8th grade and then attended school in Surrey, graduating in 1966. Following high school, Mary attended Josefs School of Hair Design and worked as a hairdresser for a couple years.
She married Gary Nerem on July 3, 1968, in Minot ND. They made their home on the ranch near Burlington ND, where they welcomed their two sons, Wayne and Calvin. In 1972, the family moved to Deering where they welcomed Jodi. They moved to the farm that they call home in 1974.
Mary was a dedicated farm wife and mother. She created a home that was a safe haven for everyone, and all knew they were always welcome. Her family was important to her, and she was incredibly proud of them. Mary was always there for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mary was hardworking, working at Wal-Mart from 1989 until her retirement in 2013.
Mary was a wonderful host. Her love for cooking was felt by everyone who entered her home. No one left hungry. She would make a homemade meal ensuring everyone was fed.
She enjoyed gardening, stitching and quilting. She created beautiful quilts for all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was a member of Deering Lutheran Church where she was actively involved in the life of the church, spending countless hours cooking and quilting.
Mary will always be remembered for her kindness, her forgiving nature, and her little bit of stubbornness. The love she shared with her family and friends will be missed.
Her loving family includes: Husband of 57 years, Gary; children, Wayne (Carrie) Nerem, Calvin (Brooke) Nerem, and Jodi Hammer; grandchildren, Amber Klingbeil, Dylan (Kimi) Nerem, Jesse (Hanna) Nerem, Jordan Nerem, Tucker Hammer, Brenna (Jeremy) Leintz, Carter Hammer, Hunter Hammer; great-grandchildren, Rylie Klingbeil, Payten Klingbeil, Stella Hook, Emberlie Nerem, Rowan Nerem, Lukas Nerem; brother, Jeffery (Linda) Brunner; sisters, Linda Jung, Kathleen (Richard) Bennis, Karen (Dennis) Wright, Helen (Michael) Lee; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; infant brothers, Anthony Brunner and Michael Brunner; brother, Dennis Brunner; sister and brother-in-law, Ramona (Dennis) Darulis; brother-in-law, Gary Jung.
Funeral: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.
Interment: Deering Lutheran Cemetery, Deering, ND.
Visitation: Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to an organization of the donor's choice.
The service will be livestreamed for the public to view and can be accessed by going to the Bethany Lutheran Church YouTube site: www.youtube.com/@bethanylutheranchurchminot7516