Sheryl Willits

Sheryl Swanson Willits, 81, of Bismarck, ND, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, at Missouri Slope. A memorial service will be held on Monday, Aug. 25,2025 at 11 a.m. at the Bismarck Funeral Home. Burial will be held at Birka Cemetery.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Born on March 13, 1944, Sheryl was the third child of Albin and Iva (Barlow) Swanson. She was raised on the family homestead west of Washburn, where she developed a lifelong love of nature, often exploring the hills and buttes with her sister Marcia. Sheryl began her education in a one-room country school before attending Washburn Public School.

Her career in healthcare began as a nurse's aide in Garrison, followed by earning her LPN license from Lake Region State College in Devils Lake. She then worked at Missouri Slope Nursing Home until retirement. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling with her sister Alma (Loel) Nelson.

Sheryl was an avid gardener and took pride in canning the produce she grew. She also found joy in reading and quiet reflection.

On April 20, 1963, Sheryl married Gene Willits. Together they raised two children, Craig and Melissa.

She is survived by her son Craig (Carrie) Willits and daughter Melissa; grandsons Cody, Connor, Chase, Christopher (Caroline) Willits, and Sean (Makayla) Martel; great-grandson Myron Martel; sisters Alma Nelson and Marcia (Arlie) Steinwand; brothers Arvin and Rodney Swanson; and many beloved nieces and nephews.