Ardis Funston

Ardis A. Funston (Berg) passed away peacefully in her home on October 1, 2023 at the age of 89.

A funeral service will be held at 2:30 PM, Saturday, Oct. 7, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Friday, Oct. 6, at Parkway Funeral Service.

Ardis Ann, the youngest of 10, was born to Jacob Jr. and Anna (Ensz) Berg on April 4^th, 1934. Over the years, they lived on multiple farmsteads in the Driscoll, ND area. She often spoke of her school years and the adventures she embarked on as a child. Following her graduation, she attended Valley City College and earned her 2-year teaching degree. She briefly taught rural school before meeting her husband George Makedonski. Married in 1953 and living in Steele, ND, they had 2 children, Cindy and Kenny. The family farmed and raised both sheep and dairy cattle. 

Over the years, Ardis enjoyed a variety of occupations ranging from a sewing store, a paint and hardware store, bus driving, and retail. She always had ideas on how to fix things up, upcycle old into new, and was always independent in her ventures, not being one to wait on another to solve a problem. In later years, that trait was the source of fun for her and stress for the rest of her family!

Later, she married Merle Funston and they resided in Sterling, ND. Adding to her list of occupations, she worked alongside the crews doing custom combining. Following that, they farmed and raised cattle. An excerpt of her autobiography speaks of her love for the animals and the gratitude she had for being able to live in the country and have such an appreciation for all animals. That was apparent, as no stray went unfed, calves lived in the house when needed, and she rode horse like the wind, many times just grabbing a piece of twine and hopping on her favorite steed. Having been her favorite activity, she passed on her love for horses to many of the younger generations.

In her ‘golden years’, Ardis enjoyed attending church and fellowship, as well as Senior Citizens. She loved to hear the news and ‘rap’ with her friends.

She was quick and clever, with a wit unmatched, showing up to support her family at every event. Ardis was always  one to put a smile on your face and teach you about her love for Christ. Passing down her wisdom and kindness, she is remembered with love, each of us having unique and cherished memories.

She is survived by her children, daughter Cindy, and son Kenny (Angie) Makedonski; grandchildren, Andrea (Joe) Volochenko, Brett Makedonski, and Lisa (Justin) Weisz; great grandchildren Jarrett and Wesley; many nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Garnet Berg and Jackie Hoeselton.

With her passing the Berg family is once again reunited and whole!