Doris Briese, 86

Doris Briese of Watkins died peacefully Friday, Aug. 27, 2021, at Hilltop Health Care Center in Watkins. She was 86.

There will be a celebration of her life from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 4, at her lake home (37126 654th Avenue, Watkins).

Doris Ann Briese was born July 28, 1935, in Dawson, N.D., to Theodore and Marie (Jensen) Mahin. She married the love of her life Joe Briese on April 24, 1959. After their marriage, they farmed the Briese family farm in Dawson, N.D. In 1969, they moved their family to Golden Valley and later to Bloomington. In 1978, Doris and Joe built their home on Clear Lake outside of Watkins where they lived out the rest of their lives.

Doris graduated with a degree in nursing in 1958. Her career included working in labor and delivery, clinical settings, Director of Nursing, and beyond. Once retired from nursing, she worked in the Special Education department at Eden Valley-Watkins Elementary School and as part-time school nurse. Doris enjoyed fishing, basketball, bowling, gardening, canning, making lefse, going to concerts, crocheting, playing card games and cribbage. She enjoyed an ice-cold Coors, a dirty martini, and an unsalted bloody Mary or margarita. What brought her the most joy was snuggling her grandkids and great-grandkids, and being surrounded by her loved ones. Doris loved her family fiercely and constantly, and yet with a gentle spirit. She had five children, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and countless extended family and friends.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband Joe, daughter Wendy, grandson Ryan, brothers and sisters-in-law, dog Dakota, and her parents.

She is survived by her sons David Briese, Mike (and Jone) Briese, and Neal (and Leigh) Briese; daughter Reneen (and Jeff) Babbitt; grandchildren Danielle (and Colton), Scott (and Annie), Malia (and Trent), Erin (and Tony), and Lance (and Hannah); great-grandchildren Finnegan, Daphne, and Phoebe; brother Duane Mahin; special loved ones Tracy, Tyree, Kobee; Luisa, Katrina, Naomi, Erin (and Josh), Vanessa, and Neveah; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and long-time friends.

Arrangements are with Ertl Funeral Home in Watkins.