Delia Madland

Delia Madland, 101, passed away October 8, 2025. Funeral Services will be Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 11 AM at Faith Lutheran Church, Bismarck. Visitation will be Monday, October 13 from 5-7 PM at Bismarck Funeral Home with a prayer service beginning at 6:00 PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place at the Menoken Cemetery.  To view the livestream go to https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b8mY_U5X0HqXR-gdceelZf4aETv0nztn/view?usp=sharing

Delia Vivian Madland was born on October 31, 1923, in Sterling, North Dakota, to Evelyn and Lawrence Mork. She attended McKenzie Elementary School and graduated from high school in Menoken. After graduation, Delia moved to Bismarck, where she began working at Benson’s Optical, a position she held for 14 years. In 1957, she took a role with the 35th Legislative Assembly at the Capitol, and later went on to work for the North Dakota State Insurance Department, where she served for 11 years.

Delia was an independent and adventurous spirit. In 1964, she bought a brand-new blue Chevy Bel Air, applied for her driver’s permit, and practiced driving on Harold and Margie’s farm. After passing her test with flying colors, she wasted no time putting her new skills to use. Along with her friend Alice Benson, she drove all the way to California—fearlessly navigating big cities and embracing the thrill of exploring new places.

On November 2, 1968, Delia married Clifford Madland and became a loving stepmother to Gordon and Linda. They lived in Jamestown, North Dakota, until Cliff’s retirement, after which they relocated to McLeod. Delia quickly became a cherished member of the McLeod community, leading the local ladies’ quilting circle for many years. She found great joy in quilting with her friends and built lifelong friendships through her creative work.

Delia and Cliff shared a love for dancing, traveling, and spending their winters in Mission, Texas. After Cliff’s passing in 1992, Delia continued the tradition of wintering in Texas, often traveling there with her close friend, Burdette, until 2005. That year, she moved to Bismarck to be closer to her family.

Delia remained active and social throughout her life. She and her sister Margie shared a love of dancing and frequently attended singles dances in Steele, North Dakota. In her later years, she lived under the loving care of her niece Janice, alongside her sister Margie. Together, they enjoyed music, puzzles, card games, and spending time with loved ones.

Delia is survived by her sister, Margie McCormick; stepson, Gordon Madland; grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Madland; her parents, Evelyn and Lawrence Mork; sisters Dorothy Shaw (Jim) and Ethel Bray (Laudie); brothers Leonard Mork and Gerald Mork (Leola); and stepdaughter, Linda.

Delia will be remembered for her loving nature, warmth, resilience, and zest for life. She touched the hearts of many and left behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.