Bernice E. Jacksen (Thompson)

Bernice E. Jacksen, 100 of Devils Lake, ND passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at the Eventide Devils Lake Care Center with loving family at her side.

Funeral Services for Bernice will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Gilbertson Funeral Home Chapel, Devils Lake with Karen Midgarden, SAM, Bernice’s niece, officiating.

Visitation on Friday, September 6^th from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. and will continue Saturday one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Graveside Services will be on Saturday, September 7^th at 12:30 p.m. at the Egeland Union Cemetery. 

Bernice Emmalin and her twin brother, Bennie born on April 29, 1919, were the last of eight children of Thomas and Mary (Larson) Thompson. Bernice was a baptized and confirmed member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Egeland and later a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Devils Lake. 

On October 28, 1941, Bernice married John R. Jacksen. They made their home on the family farm at rural Egeland, ND.  Bernice enjoyed the farm life, always had a huge garden and all the jobs that go with living on the farm and raising seven children.  In 1971 they moved into Egeland and had a grocery store for many years which she especially enjoyed doing.  In the early 1980’s they moved to Devils Lake.  John died in 1992. 

Bernice was always there for her family and they meant the world to her. She enjoyed doing her crossword puzzles, reading and always liked playing cards.  She was always willing to try something new; from hot air balloon rides to today’s modern technology. You never left her home without having something to eat. 

Bernice is survived by her son Maynard Jacksen, Egeland; daughters Myrna Heisler, Mandan, ND, Judy Held and Jan (Mike) Peterson both of Devils Lake; 22 grandchildren; 59 great grandchildren; 10 great great grandchildren; son-in-law Delano Kurtz, Devils Lake; many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 51 years John Jacksen; son Bob Jacksen; daughters Sandy Kurtz and Carol Britsch; grandson William Held; sons-in-law Eugene Heisler and Harold Held; daughter-in-law Carol Jacksen Klier; sisters Myrtle Olson, Lula Rinas and Pearl Henry; brothers Selmer, Palmer, Marvin and her twin Bennie Thompson.

Bernice has been ready to go home for a while now. She would sometimes wonder why she was still here.  She was still here to teach us.  We learned more patience, kindness, gratefulness, acceptance, by her quiet strength and faith in God.  She was always humble and kind.  Rest In Peace Wonderful Lady.