Gorton Stevens

Gorton “Doc” Stevens—93, Lignite, ND, died Tuesday, December 22, 2022 in a Bismarck hospital.

Gorton Jesse Stevens, affectionately referred to as “Doc” was born on June 26, 1929, a son of March and Nellie (Jenkins) Stevens near Glenburn, ND. He was raised and educated on the Stevens farm near Glenburn, graduating from Glenburn High School in 1947. He furthered his education by attending Minot State University.

In September, 1950, Doc entered the United States Army. He proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in November 1952. Following his discharge, he returned to ND.

Doc was united in marriage to Marion Nielsen on April 15, 1959 in Bowbells, ND. They made their home in Flaxton for four years, before settling in Lignite, ND. Together they owned and operated Stevens and Sons Welding in Lignite, ND. Marion passed away on November 30, 2007.

He was very active within the city of Lignite, serving on the City Council, Christ Lutheran Church Council and was a school board member. He was instrumental in the installation of the lights at the Lignite Football Field, so games could be played after working hours.

Doc was a very inquisitive man with several hobbies. He was a renowned inventor, quilter, gardener, wine maker and brew master, (brewing from scratch, not a kit). He never stopped learning how things worked and was always willing to lend a hand. Doc was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend and will be missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by:

Children: Ross (Naty) Stevens, Joni Stevens, Jay Stevens, and Teri Stevens; Two grandchildren: Bryce (Alexis Teske) Stevens, Cyndy (Dane Paschal) Wilson; two great-grandchildren: Caroline and Samuel Stevens; several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Doc was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 48 years Marion, a sister Iva, and brothers Howard, George, Roy and Donny.

Prayer service and Visitation: Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 4 pm at Christ Lutheran Church, Lignite, ND with visitation to follow at the church until 6 pm.

Funeral Service: Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church, Lignite, ND.

Burial: Bowbells Community Cemetery, Bowbells, ND.

Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at (www.thompsonlarson.com).