Lana M. Lilke

With sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Lana Marie Lilke, of Grand Forks, ND, on January 13, 2026, at the age of 65.

Lana was born in Grand Forks, ND, on July 14, 1960, to Vernon and June (Kath) Lilke. She grew up on the Northside of Grand Forks with her parents and her three brothers—Al, Ray, and Mylo. She graduated from Central High School in Grand Forks in 1978. After high school she attended Northland Technical College in East Grand Forks and became a Medical Laboratory Technician. She worked in the lab at Simplot Company in Grand Forks for 27 years until she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and Type 1 diabetes. Her left side became paralyzed and she was forced to use a wheelchair the rest of her life.

She met her physical challenges with determination and independence and was never one to shy away from activities and outings. She enjoyed going to craft and art fairs with her friends and was always eager to go shopping or out to lunch. A devoted “plant mom,” Lana took great pride in her large collection of plants, which flourished under her care. She enjoyed taking care of her home, reading, and browsing on her iPad. After the loss of her father in 2016, Lana selflessly assumed the role of caregiver for her mother, who had Alzheimer’s disease, and remained devoted to her care until her mother’s passing in February 2025. Lana’s dedication made it possible for her mother to continue living independently, and with patience and love, she fiercely advocated for her mother to remain in her home.

She was a kind, loving spirit and was inspiring to her family and friends. She always had a smile and a kind word to everyone she met.

Her memory will be honored at a memorial service on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Amundson Funeral Home in Grand Forks, beginning at 11:00 am. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place this spring at Memorial Park South Cemetery, Grand Forks