Patricia Bjornson

Patricia "Pat" Lynn Bjornson, 77, left earth for eternal peace at 12:29 am on January 4, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center, Bismarck, North Dakota surrounded by her loving family. 

 Pat was born on June 10, 1947, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to James and Corrine Radford. Pat was the beloved middle child between her older sister, Barbara Sue (Smith) Hanna, and younger brother, William Thomas Radford, Sr.

 Pat graduated from Daniel Webster High School in 1964 and began her life’s journey with ambition and an open heart. While taking classes at Tulsa University, she met the love of her life, Doug, at a local gas station where he worked. Their connection blossomed, and they married on April 22, 1970, at Peace Lutheran Church in Tulsa, embracing a union filled with love, adventure, and faith.

 Pat and Doug began their married life in Backoo, ND, where Doug worked as a crop duster, and soon moved to Voltaire, ND, where they planted roots and started their family. Together, they welcomed Jennifer Ann in 1972, Christopher Thomas in 1974, Clayton James in 1975, and Shannon Marie in 1976. Pat dedicated her life to raising their children, ensuring they had a loving home and cherished childhood memories.

 In 1986, a job transfer brought the family to the Beulah/Hazen area, eventually settling in Golden Valley, ND. As her children grew, Pat remained their greatest supporter—shuttling them to activities, cheering at games, and ensuring they always felt her unwavering love. In 1994, an extraordinary reunion took place when Pat’s eldest daughter, LaDonna, born in 1968, found her biological mother. The family embraced this beautiful reconnection, celebrating the joy of adding another beloved member to their lives.

 As her children grew older, Pat found time to pursue her own interests. She developed a talent for watercolor painting, creating works that reflected her artistic spirit. Pat was known for her warm, welcoming personality and sharp sense of humor, making friends wherever she went. She held a special bond with her best friend, Connie (Golly) Lafferty, and cherished their many years of friendship.

 Despite health challenges in her later years, Pat lived life with determination and joy. One of her proudest accomplishments was fulfilling her dream of white-water rafting on the Shoshone River in Cody, Wyoming—a memory she treasured. Pat’s love extended beyond her family to animals, which she adored deeply. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who always put her family first.

 Pat is preceded in death by her parents, James and Corrine Radford; her sister, Barbara Sue (Smith) Hanna; her grandchild Christian Thomas; and her dear friend, Connie (Golly) Lafferty. 

 She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Douglas; her brother, William (Bill) Radford (Eliza) from Tulsa, Oklahoma; her children, LaDonna Campbell from Florence, South Carolina, Jennifer Gillespie (John) of Cody Wyoming, Chris Bjornson from Waukee, Iowa; Clayton Bjornson from Mandan, ND; and Shannon Bjornson (Ryan Reidlinger) from Piqua, Ohio. Pat also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren: Jordyn Lynn Hofland (Kelin), Spencer Bjornson, Alyssa Bjornson, Kiran Bjornson, Casey, and John Melone; as well as her great-grandchildren, Rusty, Laramie, Emery and Memphis, who brought her immense joy.

 The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck, ND, for their care during Pat’s illness, and all the emergency medical staff from Hazen, ND. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Pat’s remarkable legacy.

Condolences and cards may be sent to:

Douglas Bjornson, P.O. Box 174,Golden Valley, ND 58541

 Pat’s kind heart, humor, and devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed but forever cherished.