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July 6, 1933-June 10, 2026
Maddock
Geraldine "Jeri" C. Rice passed away June 10, 2026, in Tempe, Arizona at the age of 92.
A woman of strong faith, she was baptized Lutheran and worshipped throughout her life. She was a schoolteacher in Hesper and Flora where she honed her skills of patience and diplomacy. She married John Rice and made a home in Maddock and Mesa, Ariz. raising three children.
Growing up in rural North Dakota instilled the values of resourcefulness and hard work. In her early years, she cared for her mother, sold encyclopedias, made and sold lefse. She also helped on the farm driving a grain truck during fall harvest. After raising her family, she refined her culinary skills and made life-long friendships through her work in food marketing.
Whether feeding loved ones in the field or around a beautifully set table, Jeri was a wonderful hostess who filled the room with delicious food and laughter. Her gatherings were often followed by a competitive game of rummy. She loved her morning coffee served in a china cup. She was known for her signature red nail polish and red lipstick, and appreciated a little sparkle in life.
She was a wonderful Mother, Grandma and Grandma Great. She is survived by her children John (Barb) Rice, Jan (Loren) Ness, Julie (Jim) Rees along with grandchildren John Ness, Alex (Stephanie) Ness, Paul (Kaylee) Rice, Janna (Kyle) Schmidt, Katie (Levi) Joraanstad, Will (Maria) Rice, John and Bobby Rees; as well as 10 great grandchildren.
Jeri was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Clara Kenner, sister Marren (Walt) Odegaard, brothers Alvin (Eleanor) Kenner, Harris (Ardy) Kenner, Harold (Patty) Kenner, husband John, grandson John Timothy Rice.
A celebration of Jeri's life will be held Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Brethren Church, 302 Central Ave., Maddock. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to CLK Education Fund c/o First Western Bank.
Published by The Minot Daily News, August 22, 2026.