Gloria Friese, age 62 of Pueblo, CO, formerly of Washburn, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 15 with her husband Wayne at her side while visiting her daughter's home in Bismarck. Her frail body could no longer fight the years of illness she so valiantly endured.

Gloria was born on December 28, 1946 in Hope, ND to Rueben & Ruth (Steinwand) Mehlhoff and always shared fond memories of her childhood in Hope. At the age of 13, her family had moved to Garrison, ND where she graduated from high school in 1964. Gloria continued her education at Bismarck Junior College and Minot State College. She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Wayne Friese, on Dec. 28, 1965 in Garrison. Through their years of marriage, Gloria and Wayne made their homes in Garrison, Devils Lake, Washburn, and most recently Pueblo, Colorado.

Gloria was an amazing woman and a true inspiration to everyone she met. She continually fought her illness, never wanting to give in. She had funny quirks about her that will forever be remembered, such as having to put down the visor whenever she got in a vehicle, no matter if it was day or night. She is also remembered for her devoted love for animals. Throughout her years, she always made sure that her birds had food and rescued many animals on the roadway. Gloria can now be with her beloved dog, Brutus. They will forever be at peace together.

Wherever there was a book lying down, Gloria would be sure to read it in no time. She was an avid reader, reading thousands of books. She loved cloudy, rainy days and going shopping. All of her grandchildren will miss Nana's snacks and great cooking.

Her classy style, compassionate nature, and strong determination will be forever etched in our hearts. We are so proud of the battle you fought for us. We thank you and God bless you, and until we meet again, keep our family safe and protect us with you guiding love.

Gloria is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 43 years, Wayne Friese of Pueblo, CO; three children, Angela Goldader (friend Mark) and her two sons Grant & Garrett of Fargo, Chad and wife Jodi Friese and their children Tatiana and Isaac of Pueblo, CO, Steffanie and husband Trent Fix and their children, Abagayl, Seth, & Caleb of Bismarck; her mother, Ruth Mehlhoff of Flasher; two sisters, Tammy (Allen) Schmidt of Flasher, & Lolly (Bob) Voller of Dwight, MN; two brothers, Rick Mehlhoff of Fargo, & Eugene "Punky" Mehlhoff of Gordonsville, TN; many nieces and nephews; and her dog Baxter and cat Emmy.

Gloria was preceded in death by her father (Rueben), two infant siblings (Danny and Trudy), her mother and father-in-law (Marie and Joseph Friese), one brother-in-law (Kenny Vollmer), and her niece and godchild, Shannon.

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, September 19 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Garrison. Interment will follow at St. Nicholas Cemetery where she will be laid to rest near her mother & father-in-law, Marie & Joseph Friese.

Visitation will be from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Friday, Sept. 18 at St. Edwin's Catholic Church in Washburn with a prayer service scheduled at 7:30 PM. A time of fellowship with coffee and bars will conclude the prayer service.