Evans Funeral Home
"Compassionate Funeral Service"
Carrington and New Rockford, North Dakota
701.652.3003 or 701.947.2911
Secondary Number ~ 701.650.9937
Colleen Dockter
Colleen Dockter, age 66, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd, New Rockford, surrounded by her daughters.
Colleen Estelle Dockter was born on October 24, 1959, to Harley and Doris (Applegate) Vinnard in New Rockford, ND. She graduated from Maddock High School in 1977. Colleen was united in marriage to David Abrahamson in 1975 and to this union welcomed two daughters: Kristy Renae and Julie Ann. Finding the love of her life, she united to Terry Dockter at the Chapel of the Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd in March 2008.
Colleen worked at Red Owl Grocery Store, in the kitchen at the Maddock Public School, and the Maddock Memorial Home. Most important to her was her nursing as she found fulfillment in building relationships and making a tangible difference in long-term residents’ lives. Her passion continued as she received her LPN degree from Northwest Technical College in 1998. This would become her lifelong calling as she worked 18 years at the Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd.
Colleen suffered from a stroke in 2012. The resulting physical and communication impairments, and subsequent medical struggles, forced her to retire at the young age of 52. She was known for her quick wit, and lively spirit and was never afraid to speak her mind. She possessed a delightful sense of humor and a certain spunk that she will be remembered for. Colleen found joy in tending to her family and friendships. Most of all, she treasured time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson Sawyer, who knew her as “granny red.” She loved being on the ball field, whether it was watching her grandkids play or simply for them to get her a Polish sausage. When she could no longer travel well, she would make sure to catch each football, basketball or volleyball game on the TV. She loved watching westerns, game shows, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Colleen is survived by her husband, Terry Dockter; her daughters, Kristy (Tony) O’Connor of New Rockford, ND, and Julie (Cody) Ellingson, Bismarck, ND; grandchildren, McKenzie (Tyler) Seaburg, Kaden Jensen, Kaiya (Preston) O’Connor, Kolton O’Connor, MaKayla (Seth) Ellingson, Preston Ellingson; great-grandson, Sawyer Benjamin; sister, Donna (Dennis) Johnson; father-in-law, Jim Dockter; brothers-in-law, James (Karla Dockter) and Joe Seiler both of New Rockford, ND; sister-in-law, Charlene Gilliss, Waubun, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Harley and Doris Vinnard; mother-in-law, Eileen Dockter; brother-in-law, Kyle Dockter and sister-in-law, Kimberly Seiler.
Colleen’s Visitation will be Monday from 1:00-4:00PM at Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford and will continue from 5:00PM – 6:00PM followed by a Prayer Service at 6:00PM at Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd Chapel, New Rockford, ND.
A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 10:00AM at Viking Lutheran Church, Maddock, ND.
Her Burial will be at Viking Cemetery, Maddock, ND.
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Julie Kristy and families:
I am so sad to hear of my dear friend Colleen’s passing. We shared many memories and fun times together for many years. May you find peace and comfort in all your cherished memories. God grant you strength as you embark on this sad journey. Love and prayers.
Am so sorry for your loss. Colleen was a great nurse, great friend, and will be missed by all. Am not sure that Heaven is ready for that feisty red haired gal. Prayers to you all.
Kristy and families, I’m so sorry to hear of your mother. She was such a sweet lady. My deepest sympathies.
So sorry to hear about your Mom we were neighbors when we grew up .
Girls you knew how I felt about your mom. She had a soft heart, just acted a little tough once in a while. We had many fun times together, and she Loved her Terry. “ Never mess with a redhead.” That’s what we always thought, just ask our husbands. Hugs to all🙏
Terry and families
So sorry for your loss, Colleen will certainly be missed; her kindness and sense of humor were just great! I hope your amazing memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Condolences and prayers to the family of Colleen
Kristi, Julie, Donna and families. I am sad to hear of Colleen’s passing. You all hold a special place in my heart. I wish I could have seen her one more time, until we meet again. You are in my prayers for comfort during this difficult time.
Terry and Girls, I’m so sorry to hear about Colleen. She was a very kind hearted person. Prayers to you all.
So sorry to hear about Colleen. I worked with her at LHGS. She was an amazing nurse and co-worker. I just loved to work with her. Then after her stroke she had coffee with all of the coffee ladies in the afternoon’s in the summer. I think it helped her speech because she was talking a lot better. I will miss her.
Dear Terry & her Daughter’s. I am so sorry for your loss. Colleen was always very nice. She will be missed.
Love Rose Black
Kristi, I am so sorry for your loss of your Mom.
Love Rose
Terry, I am so sorry for your Loss.
Love Rose
Dear Donna, Kristy, Julie, Terry and families. I hung out with Colleen many times while our dads practiced for their band. I’ve only seen her a handful of times since our young years, but remember her ready smile, mischievousness, and an awesome Barbie collection! Good memories. I’m so sorry for your loss, hold your memories close and may they bring you comfort. 🙏🏻