Bernice Nokelby, 84, of East Grand Forks, MN, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.

Bernice Yanish was born August 4, 1938 in Fisher, MN to William and Eliza (Ruby) Yanish. Bernice "Bruno" as she was better known grew up and went to school in East Grand Forks, MN, where she was famous for having a pet bear that she walked on a leash. In 1957, she married Ron Cariveau in East Grand Forks. In 1960 she married Rodney "Bud" Nokelby at Grace Lake near Bemidji, MN. They made their home in East Grand Forks where they raised their five children. Bruno also raced snowmobiles at the Grand Forks Speedway.

Bernice was a jack of all trades and was always busy. She was crafty and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, paper toll, gardening and was an excellent cook. She was self-employed for many years doing painting, wall-papering, upholstery, and miniature furniture. She worked for many years at American Crystal and spent the last 17 years working at UND as a painter before her retirement.

She is survived by her children Randy Nokelby, of East Grand Forks, Ronald (Julie) Nokelby of East Grand Forks, Marc (Kynda) Nokelby of Anchorage, AK, Steve (Jolene) Nokelby of Anchorage, AK, and Diane Nokelby of East Grand Forks; many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who she adored; sister Shirley Boushee of East Grand Forks; brothers Mike (Billie) Yanish of Grand Forks, and Richard(Judy) Yanish of East Grand Forks, and many many extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents William and Eliza Yanish, husbands Ron Cariveau and Bud Nokelby, and siblings Joseph Yanish, Art Yanish, Leonard Yanish, Clara Hanson, Dorothy Boushee, and Rosie Cayler

VISITATION: 1:00-2:00 PM, Saturday, January 14, 2022 at Dahl Funeral Home, 2029 Central Ave. NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Will immediately follow the visitation at the East Grand Forks American Legion

Online Guestbook: www.dandahlfuneralhome.com