Doris Briese

Doris Briese of Watkins died peacefully on Friday, August 27, 2021 at Hilltop Care Center. She was 86 years old. We welcome you to celebrate her life with us on Saturday, September 4th from 11am-3pm at her home on the lake (37126 654th Ave Watkins). Doris Ann Briese was born July 28th, 1935 in Dawson, North Dakota to Theodore & Marie (Jensen) Mahin. She married the love of her life, Joe Briese on April 24th, 1959. After their marriage, they farmed the Briese family farm in Dawson, ND. In 1969, they moved their family to Golden Valley, MN and later Bloomington, MN. In 1978, Doris and Joe built their home on Clear Lake outside of Watkins where they lived out the rest of their lives. Doris graduated with a degree in nursing in 1958. Her career comprised of working in labor and delivery, clinical settings, Director of Nursing and beyond. Once retired from nursing, she worked in the Special Education department at the Eden Valley-Watkins elementary and as part-time school nurse. Doris enjoyed fishing, basketball, bowling, gardening, canning, making lefsa, going to concerts, crocheting, playing card games and cribbage. She enjoyed an ice cold Coors, a dirty martini, and an unsalted bloody mary or margarita. What brought her the most joy was snuggling her grandkids and great grandkids and being surrounded by her loved ones. Doris loved her family fiercely and constantly, and yet with a gentle spirit. She had 5 children, 6 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and countless extended family and friends. Doris is survived by her sons David, Mike (Jone), Neal (Leigh); daughter Reneen (Jeff); grandchildren Danielle (Colton), Scott (Annie), Malia (Trent), Erin (Tony), Lance (Hannah); great grandchildren Finnegan, Daphne, Phoebe; brother Duane; special loved ones Tracy, Tyree, Kobee; Luisa; Katrina, Naomi, Erin (Josh); Vanessa, Neveah; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and longtime friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Joe; daughter Wendy; grandson Ryan; beloved brothers and sisters-in-law; adored dog Dakota; and her parents.