Arlene Berdahl

Minot

Arlene Eleanor Berdahl, 99, Minot, died Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Arlene was born July 27, 1926 to William Walter Juntunen and Clara Martinson, in Perth of Towner County, ND. Arlene was raised by her maternal grandparents. Growing up as a farm girl, hardworking was instilled in her.

Arlene was united in marriage to Donald Berdahl on December 2, 1944 in Lakota, ND. They made their home in Michigan from 1944 until 1955 when they moved to Minot, ND. Donald died June 30, 2009. She continued to live in Minot where she was a member of First Lutheran Church.

Arlene tried to make it to the bingo hall at least one day every week where she would routinely play up to anywhere from 25 to 100 cards in a single game. She was a true Bingo Queen. Arlene would also try to make it to Walmart at least once a week, not so much to do any shopping, but more just to mingle with all the folks there.

Arlene was a Gold Star Mother. Her oldest son, David, was listed as Killed in Action in early 1972 during the Vietnam war. Arlene stayed active with several Veterans Groups in his memory.

Arlene was the Matriarch of the Berdahl family. Her presence made everyone feel safe, seen, and deeply loved. She poured her heart into her children and grandchildren, always putting their needs before her own. Arlene cherished every person she met, welcoming all with warmth and kindness. Her compassion extended far beyond her family, touching friends, neighbors, and even strangers who were fortunate enough to encounter her gentle spirit.

An amazing chef and homemaker, she expressed her love through the meals she prepared and the home she created. Her kitchen was a place of joy, laughter, and unforgettable flavors–where recipes were perfected with patience and served with love. Her home was always open, filled with warmth, care, and a sense of belonging. She loved playing a fast polka on the accordion or the piano and in her younger years was always the first to grab a partner and dance a mean two step to the polka.

Arlene’s legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the memories she created, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Arlene’s loving family includes her children Marlene Brandt, Minot, Marilynn Tayler, Azel, TX, Connie Marie Mercier, Walton, IN, Carol (Carl) Florez, St. Augustine, FL, Roxanne Keelan, Linda (Daniel) Seaman, Lorie Ann Meyer, all of Minot, Donald Berdahl, Mandan, ND and Cathy Jo Berdahl, Minot, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great- grandchildren.

Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sons David, Allan and Robert “Bobby” Berdahl, daughter Peggy Sheppard, grandsons Christopher and Michael Florez, son-in-law James Brandt and half-sisters Doris and Blanche Benson.

Celebration of Arlene’s Life: 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at First Lutheran Church, Minot. To view a livestream of the service or share memories and condolences access her obituary at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot

Visitation: Wednesday, February 4th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

Memorials are preferred to American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. or First Lutheran Church, Minot.

Published by The Minot Daily News, February 3, 2026.