Evelyn Kelsch

Evelyn Kelsch, 84, of Bismarck, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at her home in Edgewood Assisted Living, surrounded by her loving family after a long journey with health challenges.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, at the Church of Ascension in Bismarck. Visitation is scheduled from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, at Parkway Funeral Service in Bismarck, followed by a rosary and vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Burial will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Evelyn was born and raised on a family farm in Linton, ND, to John J. and Alma (Bollinger) Dockter. She was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran Church and graduated from Linton High School in 1958. On May 31, 1960, she married Jerome Kelsch of Linton. Together they built a life filled with love and were blessed with three children: Devota, Glenn, and Melissa. Evelyn's early years were dedicated to being a homemaker. Once her children were grown, she began working outside the home at Kist Livestock and the Bismarck Civic Center before embarking on a fulfilling 20-year career with Walmart, from which she retired in 2012. Known for her intelligence, humor, quick wit, and resilience, Evelyn had a unique ability to connect with people wherever she went. She found joy in dancing to polka music and had an eye for anything that sparkled—especially shoes and jewelry. Evelyn expressed her love through cooking favorite meals and remembering the smallest details about others’ lives.

Evelyn is survived by her husband of nearly 65 years, Jerome; her children Devota (Francis) Bruce of Bismarck; Glenn (Ricka) Kelsch; and Melissa (Ray) Horner of California; four grandchildren Christopher (Samantha) Grant, Alysa (Kelsch) Schiff, Skye Horner, Eli Kelsch; as well as five great-grandchildren Xabien, Vayzie, Ryzie, Olivia, Jacob.

She was preceded in death by her parents John J. and Alma Dockter; and siblings Leo Dockter, Irene (Don) Gereszek, and Melvin Dockter. Evelyn will be deeply missed by all who knew her for her warmth, humor, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Native American Rights Fund, listed here: https://narf.org/