Harold V. Nilep

Harold V. Nilep, 96 of Devils Lake ND passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at the Eventide Heartland Care Center, Devils Lake.

Harold Vernon Nilep was born in McVille ND on July 24, 1924 to Gustav and Christina (Frank) Nilep. He was reared and educated in the Tolna ND area, attending the Leval Township School at rural Tolna.  Harold farmed with his parents at Tolna for several years. 

Harold was united in marriage to Ardis Opoien on September 23, 1946 in a double ceremony with her brother Wallace and his bride Evelyn.  Harold and Ardis established their home in Devils Lake where they lived, worked, and raised their family.  Harold and Ardis were true entrepreneurs; owning and operating the first drive-in in Devils Lake called the “Wig Wam”.

Harold began a career with Powell Motor Company that would span 40 years.  He was a dedicated, hard-working employee who applied his mechanic skills to his job each day. 

After retiring, Harold was not idle.  He helped local farmers, and tended a huge garden, giving away the produce of that garden to neighbors, family, and friends.  In their spare time, Harold and Ardis loved to dance, including square dancing, and especially enjoying a trip to the dance floor for a good polka. They also enjoyed traveling and spent 18 winters in Apache Junction AZ.  Ardis died on August 27, 2008.

Harold was a faithful member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Men’s Club and also was a life-time member of the Odd Fellows.

Harold was a devoted husband, loving dad, grandpa, great grandpa, and dear friend to many.

Harold’s loving family include his sons Douglas and Kathleen Nilep of Apache Junction AZ and Darrell Nilep and Beth Fiebiger of Devils Lake ND; grandchildren Chad (Junko) Nilep and Cass (Richard) Kotrba and Kristie (Michael) Ahern; great grandchildren Jade and Benjamin Kotrba, Emmett, Conlan, Louis, Isaac and Elsie Ahern; sisters-in-law Marlys Mathieson of Killdeer ND and Louise Opioen of California; many nieces, nephews and their families. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Ardis, brothers Harry, Fritz, Thomas, Frank and Henry Nilep and sisters Mabel Alm, Mae Snortland, Rosa Schindele, and a sister Grace in infancy.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. Due to COVID, a memorial service will be held at a later date.