Shelly Simburger

Shelly Diane Simburger (Isaacs), 67, of Mandan, a beloved mother to five sons and two daughters, passed away on March 4, 2024, at her home after a multi-year war against pancreatic cancer. She left this world surrounded by her family and friends, fully reassured that she loved and was loved by all those around her.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Engage Nazarene Church in Mandan, with Pastor Mike Evans officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Cremation has taken place and visitation will be held from 5 to 7 PM on Friday, March 8, 2024, at the church with a prayer service and time of sharing at 7 PM.

Shelly was born in Litchfield, Illinois in February 1957, to Thomas and Shirley (Melchert) Isaacs. She grew up free-spirited, wearing jeans and bare feet, alongside five siblings.  In 1976, Shelly was married and shortly after gave birth to her first son, Caleb George, in 1980. A few years later in 1982, Elijah Michael followed.  In the winter of 1982, Shelly and her family moved to Mandan, North Dakota.  Like residents of North Dakota throughout all time, she was initially alarmed by the ferocity of North Dakota winters. However, her warmth and sense of adventure quickly found her heavily involved in the church and conquering snow drifts on her snowmobile.  In 1984, Shelly gave birth to Isaac Shane, her first son born in North Dakota. In 1988, Shelly birthed her fourth son, Josiah Thomas. In 1993 and 1994, Shelly lost two daughters in childbirth, Amanda Lauren and Hannah Rose.  In 1996, Shelly gave birth to her youngest, Benaiah Harold.  

Shelly was the epitome of a homemaker, highly regarded for her abilities in the home, kitchen, and garden. In 1993, she was named North Dakota’s Fulltime Homemaker of the Year by the Eagle Forum. She also stepped beyond that role when the moment required, starting a cleaning business for both homes and offices. Shelly exhibited bravery when she attended college as an adult, earning an Associate Degree in criminal justice from Bismarck State College in 2007.

Shelly was a champion for women and children. She achieved her goal of becoming a Licensed Parenting Investigator and aided in the resolution of multiple cases.  Her charge was always crystal clear, cut through the drama and determine what is in the best interest of the child. Working with state and private organizations, Shelly led and created training which raised awareness on the issue of domestic violence. Working with Teen Challenge, Shelly provided mentorship to many women.  Shelly was also a breast cancer survivor and an advocate for Women’s Way.

Shelly was an avid enjoyer of the outdoors, finding freedom and excitement whether it be in a kayak, a boat, or a snowmobile.

A steadfast Jesus Freak since the 1970’s, Shelly is assured that she will be stepping forward into the loving arms of her Creator, and unburdening herself from the pain of this world.  She made everything better and she loved life despite all of its challenges. Her legacy lives on in her family, friends, and recipes -- although the world is truly a little less bright without her.

Shelly was preceded in passing by her parents; her brother, Michael; two daughters; and a grandchild. 

Blessed to have shared in her life are her five sons and daughters-in-law, Caleb (Stephanie), Elijah (Shanda), Isaac (Ashley), Josiah (Brittany), and Benaiah (Sarah); five grandchildren, Sawyer, Lander, Evie Mae, Ezra, and Michael; her sisters, Kathy, Deborah, Shawn, and Cindy; her brother, Patrick; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorials are preferred to: YMCA Livestrong Class, Mandan Women's Way Program, or Answers in Genesis.