Barbara J. Knodel

Barbara J. Knodel, 92, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, at Sanford Hospice. She was born May 30, 1934, in Leeds, North Dakota, to Florence and Aurelius Offner.

Barbara was a lifelong North Dakotan who will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, and love of family and friends. She had a big heart, especially when it came to animals. She often provided food, water, and shelter to many stray dogs and cats. She also loved feeding and watering wild birds throughout the cold North Dakota winters. Her compassion for animals was an important part of who she was.

Barbara married Ardel E. Knodel on July 1, 1954, in Jamestown, North Dakota. Together, they raised their family in Fargo and built a life centered on family, hard work, and caring for others. Her children will always remember her for her devoted care, generosity, and guidance throughout their lives.

Barbara worked in the Newborn Nursery at St. Luke’s Hospital, now Sanford Health. She later worked as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone and at the Veterans Administration Hospital. She subsequently worked as an adjudicator for veterans.

She is survived by her children, David (Nancy) Knodel, Susan (Randal) Ness and Janet (Patrick) Knodel; three grandchildren, Mia (Paul) Kozitka, Marissa (Raphael) Knodel and Evelina Knodel.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ardel; her brother, Paul; and her parents.

Funeral visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on August 27, 2026, at Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sanford Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Barbara and her family during her final days.