Lois M. (Peterson) Bismarck

Lois (Peterson) Bismarck went to be with Jesus, her Lord and Savior, on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91, while at GracePointe Crossing in Cambridge, MN.

She was born to Joseph and Esther Peterson in Grandy, MN on September 28, 1933.  She was lovingly referred to as “sis” by her 4 brothers.

As a young child, she had a life-long best friend named “Tootsie”.

October 8, 1948, she married Wallace (Wally) Bismarck.  He would often jokingly refer to her as his first wife, as they were married 73 years.  They made their home on a multi-generational home east of Grandy.

Together they raised their 5 children, believing and teaching them about morals and values, faith, family, community and country.

Lois was a member of Stanchfield Baptist Church.  She served as a Sunday school teacher, deaconess, kitchen helper were just a few roles she served. She lived out her faith with love and by example.

The Bismarck’s lived in a community that believed in helping each other, not for pay, but “that’s just what we do”.  Pay it forward and a hand shake on a deal meant something.  This neighborhood had fun in many ways (always involved a cup of coffee). They had Bible studies, bowling leagues, Christian Women’s, Grandy Good Cheer Guild, Birthday Club, Border Bells just to name a few.  Lots of parties and many laughs all in good clean fun.

Coffee time at Grandma Myrtle’s was a daily event where current events were the topic of discussion.

When grandchildren and great grandchildren came, she would rock them tenderly and lovingly singing, “Jesus loves me” to them all.  As they grew, she taught them all to “love one another”.

In their retirement years, Lois and Wally took many bus trips together to various parts of the US, Canada, and even made a trip to England.  They became “winter Texan’s” for several years in Harlingen, Texas.  Many cards were played there, potlucks, and parties. Lois was a member of the Red Hatter’s and many new friends were made.

When her health declined, Wally and Lois made the move to Riverwood Village and eventually settled at GracePointe in Cambridge.

After husband Wally passed away in September 2022, she would have some adjustments to make being alone.  Lois being Lois found new friends.  She loved people!

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by husband, Wallace Bismarck; sister, Helen “Betty” Elizabeth Peterson; brothers, Gordon Peterson, Kenneth Peterson, Donald Peterson; nieces and nephews.

Lois is survived by her 5 children, Bradley (Luana) Bismark, Deborah Gerrety, Julie (Steve) Gustafson, Roxi (Ron) Emerick, Dan (Katie) Bismarck; 16 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren; brother, Warren (RoseAnn) Peterson; God child, Alan Miller; many nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to the staff of GracePointe Crossing and Optage Hospice Care during her final days.  Their kindness and extended love mattered!

In lieu of flowers, Memorials are preferred to Trout Lake Camperships and St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Funeral Service 11AM, Friday, November 8, 2024 at Stanchfield Baptist Church.  Visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment in the church cemetery.

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