Cynthia L. Pic

Cynthia “Cindy” Lou Pic, age 62, of Niagara, ND, peacefully departed this life on February 13, 2026, in Fargo, ND, with her husband, Allan, by her side.

Cindy was born on December 13, 1963, in Grand Forks, ND, to Richard and Elaine West and was raised on the family farm near Niagara — a place that shaped her roots, her resilience, and her deep love for community. The values instilled in her there became the foundation upon which she built her life and guided every role she would later hold.

At just 14 years old, Cindy met Allan Pic at a local wedding dance — a chance encounter that blossomed into a lifelong love story. They dated throughout high school and college and were united in marriage on May 31, 1985. Together they built their life on the family farm in Niagara, it was there that Cindy created a home filled with laughter, purpose, hospitality, and open doors.

In 1982, Cindy graduated from Unity High School. With characteristic determination, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Business Education from the University of North Dakota, where she was a proud member of Gamma Phi Beta.

Her professional life reflected her heart for service. Cindy began her career teaching at Sacred Heart and Aaker’s Business College before joining Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, where she faithfully served for more than 30 years in a variety of roles. Her dedication to improving the lives of others extended beyond her career. At the time of her passing, she was serving her fifth term on the Grand Forks County Commission, carrying out her responsibilities with integrity, energy, and unwavering commitment to her community. She also served on countless boards and committees, always going above and beyond to make a difference.

Faith was not simply something Cindy had — it was something she lived. She used to teach Sunday School at Elk Valley, served as a lay minister for several area churches, and quietly but consistently helped others through encouragement, leadership, and compassion.

A true go-getter, Cindy rarely sat still. She was the life of every gathering and loved hosting — from Sunday dinners to unforgettable farm parties that friends and family still talk about. She was an excellent cook and baker, an avid gardener, and could almost always be found mowing the lawn on the farm. She lived intentionally and enthusiastically, traveling often and cheering loudly for UND athletics, especially hockey and football.

Of all her roles, however, the ones she treasured most were wife, mother, and Grandma. Cindy and Allan were blessed with two children, Carissa and Justin, and she embraced motherhood wholeheartedly. But becoming “Grandma” was her greatest joy.

Her grandchildren — Arlo, Jovie, Hallie, and Annie — were the light of her life. She treasured every game, every hug, every small, ordinary moment that became meaningful simply because she was present.

This winter, Cindy and Allan checked off several bucket-list experiences together — attending an NHL game in Winnipeg and both an NBA and NFL game in Minneapolis. In June, they were looking forward to completing their list with a cruise to Alaska, another adventure they eagerly anticipated side by side.

Throughout her life, Cindy faced significant medical challenges with remarkable courage and determination. She met each obstacle head on, never defined by hardship and never allowing it to slow her down for long. Her strength was steady and unshaken. Even on difficult days, she chose gratitude, faith, and forward motion. Those closest to her witnessed a woman of extraordinary resilience — one who carried more than most ever knew yet continued to live boldly and fully.

Cindy loved deeply. She showed up. She worked hard. She laughed loudly. She served faithfully. She created a home and a life that made others feel welcomed, known, and valued. Her legacy is one of strength, service, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

Though her presence will be profoundly missed, the imprint of her love will continue in the family she nurtured, the community she served, and the countless lives she touched.

She is survived by her husband, Allan of Niagara, ND, who lovingly stepped into the role of caregiver; her daughter, Carissa (Gabe) Wirtz of Fargo, ND; her son, Justin (Kelly) Pic of Gilby, ND; her parents, Richard and Elaine West of Niagara, ND; her cherished grandchildren, Arlo Wirtz and Jovie, Hallie, and Annie Pic; her sister, Julie Sandbakken of Devils Lake, ND; her sisters-in-law, Anita (Brian) Mathison of Walhalla, ND, and Jackie (Wayne) Anderson of Northwood, ND; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her in-laws, Rose and Clarence Pic; her grandparents, Hannah and Julius Gilbertson and Edith and Roy West; and her favorite fur baby and gardening buddy, Tank.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am at Elk Valley Lutheran Church on Friday, February 20, 2026. Visitation will take place at the Alerus Center Ballrooms on Thursday, February 19, from 5-7pm. Please use doors 4-6 for entry. A Prayer Service will be held starting at 7:00pm. Visitation will continue at Elk Valley Lutheran Church on Friday, one hour prior to the service.