Dorothy Kroll

Dorothy Magdelina Kroll, of Bismarck, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 at her winter residence in Mesa, Arizona. 

Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, June 30, 2025 at Weigel Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. 

Born on July 3, 1937, in Pettibone, North Dakota, Dorothy lived a long and meaningful life filled with love, resilience, and deep devotion to her family. On January 15, 1960, Dorothy married the love of her life, Oscar Kroll. Together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage, building a home filled with love, laughter, and enduring values. Dorothy was a homemaker, ran day care from her home, and managed the café in the MDU building. 

Oscar preceded her in death in July 12, 2015, and Dorothy continued to carry his memory with grace and strength. She is survived by her son Bryan Kroll (64) – (partner Richard), her daughter Sarah Entze (60) – (husband Marlin), and her daughter Tonia Swanson (53) – (husband Kyle). She was a cherished grandmother to Kiera Swanson (21), Alex Swanson (18), and step-granddaughter Alicia Watkins (32) – (husband Matt). She was also step-great-grandmother to ShawMarie Watkins (9) and Conrad Watkins (7). Dorothy had two sisters, Lavonne Schulz (Fargo, ND) and Elaine Ward (Deceased) who shared the same birthday, though in a different year. She also had two brothers, Marvin Geist (Fargo, ND) and Harold Geist (Deceased). Dorothy also had a large extended family of step-siblings and half-siblings. 

Dorothy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She spent her summers in North Dakota, surrounded by familiar places, longtime friends, and family traditions. She loved camping, playing cards, and enjoying a wellmade Bloody Mary on a relaxing Sunday. She was also an enthusiastic fan of cooking shows and classic westerns. Her warmth, humor, and ability to make every gathering feel special will be deeply missed.