Inez J. Gunkelman,104, passed away peacefully at Bethany on 42nd, in Fargo, ND, on January 23, 2026. Inez will be remembered most for her devotion to family and her strong faith. Her children were told over and over again, “Your mother is an angel.” She earned this praise from kindness and love she generously shared with others.
Born to I.O. and Jennie Hanson on September 13, 1921, Inez grew up on a modest farm near Svea, ND. After earning her teaching certification at Valley City State College, she became an English teacher. Her teaching career brought her to Grandin, ND, where her outgoing personality and adventurous spirit captured the heart of Paul Gunkelman. They were married in 1946. Together, they raised six children in Grandin, where Inez fully embraced community and church life. Later, they moved to Fargo where Inez began a new career working for ME until retiring at age 81.
Inez loved baking, playing bridge, golfing, family time at their cabin on Big Floyd, sewing quilts for her growing family, preparing and serving meals, and playing games whenever family came to visit. Even at 104, she was extremely competitive and hard to beat. She always looked forward to the next outing with family or friends.
Inez is survived by her six devoted children, Ginny Wheeler, Jim (Julie) Gunkelman, Susan (Bernie) Zimmerman, Julie (Larry) Leitner, Lee (Tracy) Gunkelman and Bob (Liz) Gunkelman; twenty-six grandchildren and their spouses; nineteen great-grandchildren; brother, Dick Hanson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her husband, J. Paul; their infant son; son-in-law, Tim Wheeler; parents; three sisters, Alice Nelson, Harriet Halvorson and Avis Bourland; and fifteen brothers and sisters-in-law.
Inez was known for her positive attitude and her ability to make the best life had to offer. The family is especially appreciative of the love and care Inez received from everyone at Bethany.
A celebration of her remarkable life will be held at the First Baptist Church, 1501 17th Ave S, Fargo, on February 10, 2026, at 11 am, with a visitation an hour prior. The service will be live streamed and can be viewed by going to Inez’ obituary page at www.korsmofuneralservice.com. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Fargo. Memorials preferred to First Baptist Church, Fargo.
Arrangements by Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service, Moorhead, MN.
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