Lanette Stollenwerk

Lanette Stollenwerk, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on December 11, 2025, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 11, 1953, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, to Henry and Ruth (Bontjes). Lanette's journey through life began in the rural communities of Breckenridge, Kent, and Wahpeton, where she attended Wahpeton High School, shaping her into the caring and compassionate person she would become.

For over 35 years, Lanette dedicated herself to serving others as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Francis Home. Her genuine care, unwavering work ethic, and compassion left a lasting impact on all whose lives she touched. Lanette had an extraordinary ability to bring comfort; her calm presence being a balm for many. In her professional life, as in her personal life, she was a wonderful listener, open-minded, and welcoming to everyone around her.

Lanette's life was rich with passions and hobbies. She had a love for cooking, a delight in camping, playing bingo, and cherished moments spent at the family cabin on Red Lake, Minnesota. Her spirit thrived with every trip she took, every garden she nurtured, and every bird or animal she encountered in nature. Christmas was a particular joy for her, with her talent for wrapping beautiful gifts becoming a treasured tradition among her family.

In 1977, Lanette married Michael Stollenwerk, and together they made their home in Breckenridge, where they shared many joyful moments until Michael's passing in 1991. In 1993, she found love again with Ronald Svard, partnering with him until his death in 2017. Throughout her life, Lanette exemplified the essence of nurturing and devotion, not just as a partner but as a mother to her children, Chad Stollenwerk and Jamie Rodriguez. They were her proudest accomplishments, and she admired them deeply.

Lanette leaves behind a legacy of love and strength. She is survived by her cherished children, Chad and Jamie; her "bonus children", Denise, Stacey, Shawn, and Kelly; her beloved grandchildren, Devin Delgado, Kaia Delgado, and Landon Rodriguez; and her two great-grandchildren, Athena and Brynlee. Also left to cherish her memory are her brothers, Larry Bontjes (Norma), Laverne Bontjes (Anna), and Ladale Bontjes (Diane); her sister, Linda Strand; and many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael; her partner, Ronald; her parents, Henry and Ruth (Haslerud) Bontjes; and her brothers, Lowell and Lyle Bontjes.

A Visitation will be held on December 19, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Vertin-Munson Funeral Home in Wahpeton, North Dakota.

As we remember Lanette, we celebrate her spirit, her love that stretched wide and deep, and her profound ability to connect with those around her. Her memory will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of all who knew her.