Nancy Fines

Surprise, Ariz.

Nancy Fines, 70, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on September 3, 2023, at the age of 70 after a short illness. To fulfill Nancy’s wishes, a private family service will be held.

Nancy was born on January 2, 1953, in Minot, North Dakota, to Herb and Christina (Hermann) Gartner. Nancy was raised and educated in Minot, graduating from Minot High School in 1971.

Nancy continued her education at Minot State College, where she pursued a major in Math education. Although she faced challenges in finding a teaching position, Nancy remained resilient and took on various jobs before eventually finding a fulfilling career at Iver Eliason, CPA. Her dedication and hard work led her to a well-deserved retirement in 2003.

One of the defining chapters of Nancy’s life was her marriage to Kerry, whom she had once shared memories of high school with. On August 4, 1973, they exchanged vows at the Christ Lutheran Church in Minot. Their union was blessed with two beautiful children, who were the joy and pride of Nancy’s life. They just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Nancy spent countless hours enjoying water activities. She was a talented water-skier and, as a loving mother, patiently taught her children the ropes, creating cherished memories on the water. Additionally, Nancy and Kerry shared a love for fishing, often engaging in friendly competition to see who could catch the most fish. Being a dedicated gardener, Nancy took time to master her canning expertise.

In Nancy’s creative endeavors, she discovered a true talent for quilting. Her skillful hand-stitching and attention to detail resulted in blankets and quilts that provided warmth and comfort to her loved ones. Nancy’s craftsmanship upheld a time-honored tradition, leaving behind cherished heirlooms that will forever serve as a testament to her passion and skill.

Later in life, Nancy and Kerry embarked on new adventures, spending winters in Arizona and eventually building a home in Surprise, AZ. They embraced the opportunity to explore new horizons and create lasting memories.

Nancy’s dedication to family knew no bounds, as she never missed a single event or milestone in her children’s lives. Her unwavering love and support quite simply knew no limits. Nancy adored her role as a grandmother and became legendary among her grandkids for her delicious sugar cookies lovingly stored in ice cream pails. These cookies, made with love, became a symbol of her unwavering affection and warmth.

As we bid farewell to Nancy, we take solace in the knowledge that her spirit will forever live on in the hearts and memories of her cherished family: her devoted husband Kerry, Garrison; her loving children, Trisha (Craig) Goetz, Bismarck and Dr. Casey (Amanda Goplin) Fines, Fargo; her adoring grandchildren, Garin, Marly, Chloe and Elia Goetz and Rylee, Isaac, Kaitlyn and Liam Goplin; siblings, Ken Gartner, Minot, Bev (Tim) Lozensky, Max and Jan Caldwell, Minot and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herb and Christina Gartner; mother and father-in-law, Ed and Norma Fines and sister-in-law, Marilyn.

To share memories of Nancy and sign the online guestbook, visit www.eastgatefuneral.com.

Published by The Minot Dail News, September 14, 2023.