Ronald Frederick Braseth

Ronald "Ron" Braseth, 76, took his final earthly breath on Sunday, March 16th after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Ron passed peacefully in the comfort of his home, held in the arms of his loving wife Jenell. In this moment, grief and joy are intertwined. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, while we are grateful that he is free from worldly care and pain. Ron is now at peace in the arms of Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior. Ron was born to Roald and Ardis Braseth on August 26, 1948, in Halstad, MN. He attended grade school in Caledonia, ND and graduated with the class of 1966 in Hillsboro, ND. His faith was a cornerstone in his life; baptized and confirmed in Marsh River Church, Shelly, MN.

He married Jenell Braseth on September 28, 2002, in Las Vegas. Together they lived many years in Mayville, ND before moving to their current home in Grand Forks. Not only was Jenell the love of Ron's life, he also opened his heart and embraced Jenell's children and grandchildren as his own. This family union was a blessing and enrichment to Ron's life over the years.

Ron's life encompassed a heart of service, evidenced by his years in the Financial Industry and dedication to serving on multiple boards. He was known to lead by example and inspired many he worked for and with. In his younger years, he enjoyed working with local farmers, hauling sugar beets and local construction. In December 1968 Ron began working for Norwest Bank Corporation, auditing and examining banks through their data processing center in Fargo. In 1975, he transferred to commercial banking with First National Bank & Trust, working his way up to Vice-President and Director. At the age of 33, Ron was elected to serve as the first Bank President in ND. He served as director of First National Bank in Hettinger and Drake, ND. While in Hettinger, he served as a board member for West River Regional Medical Center, United Clinics P.C., as well as several community organizations. He was elected to serve with the ND Bankers Association, representing the SW District of ND.

In June 1990 Ron relocated to Mayville and joined the Goose River Bank as Senior Vice-President. A short time later, he became President and CEO. He served under multiple governors on the ND State Bank board between 1995 and 2010; ND Bankers Association representing the NE district, 5 years; Heartland Trust, 15 years; Union Hospital, 9 years and the May-Port Economic Development Committee.

While serving on the ND Department of Institution's Board, the laws and regulations covering bank branches changed. This allowed the Goose River Bank to acquire property and build branches in Hillsboro (1997) and Hatton (2005). Ron was proud of serving so many in the local communities in these many roles throughout his life. After 46 years, Ron made the bittersweet decision to retire. However, that did not stop him from finding a new role in which he could continue to serve others. Until his illness, Ron was employed by Professional Transportation, Inc. Evansville, IN. He was perfect for this role, having good old conversations with railroad employees needing to be picked up and transported home. Ron often spoke of his many blessings, building a wealth of lifelong friendships and colleagues he cherished.

As hard as Ron worked, he also liked to play hard and live life to the fullest. True to his heart, he served on the "Cruise to the Island" committee/board for a total of 25 years. He had a love for classic cars, primarily corvettes, as well as Harley Davidson's. He fulfilled several trips all over the US in his corvette and on his Harley, including Iron Mountain Road, Needle's Highway, Laughlin River Run, and Tail of the Dragon, entertaining Ron with 318 curves in 11 miles! He enjoyed many poker nights, golf outings and ski trips with friends over the years. Ron especially looked forward to the many traveling adventures he had with Jenell, family and friends. May these many memories bless and comfort all those who knew Ron best.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Jenell and children: Chad (Sarah) Amb, Mandy (Beau) Koopal, Travis (Ana) Amb, Daniel (Stacey) Amb; grandchildren: Brooke, Cameron, Vaile, Hollynd, Trygve and Elise Amb, Devyn, Brienna and Blaire Koopal; brother: Gerald (LaDonna) Braseth; sister: Barbara Bueng; nieces and nephews: Melissa (Bob) Lehr, Jason (Melissa) Braseth, Angela Domier, Brian (Sherry) Bueng, Mitchell Preston, Claudia Storey and Kimberly Preston; sisters-in-law: Terry (Lynn) Strand and Cheri Kvernen; brothers-in-law: Paul (Tamarie) Kvernen and Dale (Kim) Kvernen; and extended family. Ron will also be deeply missed by his beloved fur babies: Angus and Bella.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roald and Ardis Braseth; sister: Carol Preston; brothers-in-law: Devere Preston and Curtis Bueng.

In lieu of flowers, family would welcome memorials in honor of Ron sent to Caledonia Cemetery Fund, Red River Hospice or Children’s Cancer Research Fund at http://ccrf.org/ronbraseth .

Visitation: Will be 5–7 PM on Monday, March 24, 2025 with a 6:30 PM Public Prayer Service at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND and will resume one hour prior to the service at the church.

Funeral Service: Will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at the Mayville Lutheran Church in Mayville, ND.

Burial: Will be in the Caledonia Cemetery in Caledonia, ND.