Clendora Ternes

Clendora “Connie” Ternes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend, peacefully departed this life, her spirit now at rest, on Monday, April 29th, 2024.

Clendora Lucille (Havens) Ternes was born March 12^th, 1935 in Linton, ND to Burton and Jacoba (VandenBurg) Havens. She grew up on a farm in Grant County, ND. She graduated from Flasher High School in 1952. After graduating, she taught briefly at the Kanispal one room schoolhouse. She married the love of her life, William R. Ternes on February 3^rd, 1953. Together they made their home in Bismarck, ND where they lovingly welcomed five children, Blaine, Bruce, Jane, Jean, and Billy. They moved to Fargo, ND in 1966, Fergus Falls, MN in 1968, Thief River Falls, MN in 1969, returning to Bismarck in 1977.

Clendora was a devoutly religious soul who found joy in socializing, tending to flowers, and bird watching, especially relishing the moments spent feeding her feathered friends. A passionate player of 3/13 and cribbage, Connie had a penchant for Merlot, tapping her glass for a refill with a sparkle in her eye. Her cherished and faithful fur companion, Bobbie, held a special place in her heart. Whether accompanying her on walks, curling up at her feet, or offering unconditional love, Bobbie was always by her side, providing comfort and solace through life's ups and downs.

Known for her vivacious spirit, Clendora radiated warmth and love whenever surrounded by friends, family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her fiery yet endearing personality, marked by her strong will, stubbornness, and dramatic flair, left a lasting mark on all who knew and loved her. She had a knack for discreetly adjusting the thermostat, ensuring discomfort for those around her. Gardening and knitting were among her many passions, bringing beauty and warmth into her world. In retirement she loved traveling with Bill and their close friends.

She is survived by her children, Blaine (Shar) Ternes, Bruce (Patti) Ternes, Jane Thingelstad (Ross Mohr), Jean (Mark) Spiekermeier; daughter-in-law Susie Ternes, her nine grandchildren, Shannon (Christina) Ternes, Brieanna (Ben) Speldrick, Nick (Emily) Ternes, Mickenzy (Ryan) Enockson, Corey (Amanda) Thingelstad, Kelly (Cody) Haggard, Sara (Matt) Edmondson, Rory (Lacy) Suby, Drew Suby; two step-grandchildren Dustin (Mari) Randall, Cody Randall; 17 great-grandchildren Will and Mason Ternes, Blake Speldrick, Olivia, Ellianna, and Jackson Ternes, Jase, Grant, and Sylvie Sue Enockson, Archer Thingelstad, Rylee and CJ Haggard, Seven Vigessa, Reina Edmondson, Forrest and Pierce Suby, Bubba Suby; one great step-granddaughter (Aliani); brother, Alvin Havens; sister, Marilyn Bay, and her beloved fur baby, Bobbie.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Ternes; son, Billy Ternes; her parents, Burton and Jacoba Havens; her brother, Harold Havens, and her nephew, Douglas Bay.

Clendora’s legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.