Patricia Romelfanger

Patricia Jean Romelfanger, 94, of Jamestown, ND, peacefully passed away to be with her Heavenly Father on the evening of November 4, 2026, at Eventide, surrounded by her loving family. Patricia was born on October 1, 1932, in Jamestown, ND, to William and Bertha (Wescom) Boelke. She spent her early school years in a one-room country schoolhouse before attending St. John’s Academy in Jamestown, graduating in 1953. Following her education, Pat worked for Paul Chiropractic as an X-ray developer and later stepped into the role of office manager. Remembered above all for her gentle, kind, and exceptionally caring spirit, Pat dedicated her life to ensuring those around her felt loved, known, and supported. She was a faithful member of St. James Basilica and lived out her devotion through continuous acts of warmth and interest in others. Pat possessed a genuine curiosity about people, always asking where they were from and listening intently to their stories. She was quick to offer thoughtful, loving advice, encouraging everyone she met to take care and be safe on whatever journey life took them. Complementing her compassionate nature was a sharp wit, a delightful sense of humor, and an attentive intelligence that could effortlessly bring a smile to anyone’s face. From a young age, Pat held a deep love for all animals—especially birds and dogs—and she always cherished receiving photos and hearing stories of her friends’ pets. In her youth, she was an avid roller-skater and ice-skater, spending countlessly happy hours at local skating rinks with her lifelong close friend, Jean "Jeannie" Wanzek. The true love of Pat’s life was Jim Romelfanger, who was first her childhood friend and neighbor. They were united in holy matrimony on June 20, 1957, at St. James Basilica sharing 69 years of marriage and 80 years of cherished friendship. Together, they shared a passion for cars, belonging to the local Car Club and traveling to numerous car shows. Over their lifetime, they owned 170 cars and treasured every adventure and memory made with their friends. One of the absolute greatest joys of Pat’s life was her little sister, Deborah, whom she loved dearly and whose memory she held close to her heart throughout her life. Pat is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Jim Romelfanger; her godchildren, Shawn (Karmel) Wanzek and Jason (Joan) Wanzek; and her lifelong friends, Jonee and Jim Phillips, and Ethel Oxtoby. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Bertha Boelke; her brother, William Boelke; and her beloved sister, Deborah Boelke.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 13, 2026 at St. James Basilica, Jamestown, ND, with Very Reverend C.F. Wilhelm, celebrant.

Burial: Calvary Cemetery, Jamestown, ND