Nancy Dockter

Nancy Dockter, 71, Bismarck, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 8, 2025. A memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 15 at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck. Family will greet guests one hour prior.

Nancy Lee Dockter was born on January 6, 1954, and spent much of her childhood in Hazelton and Bismarck, North Dakota. She grew up surrounded by family, good friends, and small-town values that shaped her caring nature and strong work ethic.

One day, while babysitting for some family friends, fate stepped in. Nancy met the love of her life, John Dockter, who had just returned home from serving in the Navy. It didn’t take long for sparks to fly, and on September 8, 1973, they were married at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Bismarck. Together with 52 years of marriage, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Nancy and John shared a passion for the outdoors, camping, fishing, and making memories around a campfire. They were later blessed with two wonderful and talented children, Justin and Tara, who became the center of Nancy’s world. Her motto was simple: family first, and she lived that out every single day.

Nancy’s kitchen was the heart of her home. She was famous for her meat plachinda, knoephla soup, and an endless list of baked goods that could rival any bakery. If there was a family gathering, you could count on Nancy not only being there but showing up with the best pickles, dips, or deviled eggs in the room. No one ever left her house hungry or without a hug.

She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved. Whether she was helping her mom, supporting her siblings, or cheering on her grandkids, Nancy gave from the heart. Her kindness extended far beyond her family, as she was always the first to offer a hand or lend an ear to someone who needed it. Nancy loved playing cards, gardening and going to the casino.

Nancy’s greatest joy was being a mom, grandma, and grand-dog mom. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she never missed an opportunity to brag about their latest accomplishments.

Nancy lived a full and generous life, one marked by love, laughter, and an open door. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and countless recipes no one can quite make like she did.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband, John Dockter; her children, Justin (Cristie) Dockter and Tara Dockter; and her cherished grandchildren, Haley Dockter and Jaden Dockter. She is also survived by her siblings, Bill (Tracy) Scherr, Dan (Carleen) Scherr, Colleen (Dwight) Kilen, Bob Scherr, and Diane (Howard) Rieger; as well as John’s siblings, Diane (Kevin) Kwasniewski, Gladys Zerr (dec. Ron), Darlene (Ralph) Skare, Stan (Donna) Dockter, Lyle Dockter, Dan (Laurie) Dockter, Lynn (Brenda) Dockter, and Marilyn Dockter. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Peggy and Andrew Scherr; John’s parents, John and Pauline Dockter; siblings Kenneth Dockter, Gloria Eble (dec. George), Elaine Landenberger (dec. Walter), James Dockter, Leona Papke (dec. Art), and Mable Thon (dec. Harland), MaryLou (Adie) Metz; and her best friends, Patti Kruckenberg and Chuck and Marian Grumbo.

She will be deeply missed by all who are lucky enough to know and love her.