Bert L Wilson

Bert L. Wilson Jr. passed away peacefully on July 31st, 2010 in Mesa, AZ following a happy and successful life. He was born to Bert and Blanche Wilson on May 22, 1921 in Flaxton, ND. His family moved to Bowbells where he completed his primary education. Bert graduated from Bowbells High School in 1939 and went on to attend Valley City Teachers College. He transferred to the University of North Dakota where he received his commerce degree. Upon the outbreak of WWII, he enrolled in midshipmen’s school at Columbia University. Bert was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the US Navy and served in both Pacific and Atlantic theaters. After a successful, decorated naval career and honorary discharge he married Beatrice Anne on June 15, 1946. They moved to Grand Forks where he completed law school in 1949. He began practicing law in Bowbells where he served as States Attorney for 25 years. Bert was appointed county judge of Williams Co with increased jurisdiction in Williston, ND the fall of 1979 where he and Bea continued to reside until 2007. During that time his prominent career included serving as 6th district judge. Upon retirement he was appointed as surrogate judge of the North Dakota Supreme Court.

Bert volunteered in various civic organizations including the American Legion, Lions, OES, Masons, Shriners, and was very active in his local church community.

Preceding him in death were his children Julie and Nancy, his parents and siblings; Glen Wilson, Mabel Brown, Helen Molzhon, Hazel Ranes Hendricksen, Gladys Rodda and Beryl Molzhon.

Surviving Bert are his wife Bea of 64 years, children Shelley Kilgore (Kevin), Jim Wilson (Arlene), Tammy Smith (Paige), Tom Wilson (Mary); grandchildren Quinn McCann, Cory McCann Green, Kelly McCann Martin, Stacia Torrey, Sean Kilgore, Chad Kilgore, Stryder Scalf, Tristan Wilson, Erica Post, Paige Wilson, Connor Wilson, 8 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Wednesday, August 4th at 2:00 PM.