Bonlyn Jean Speidel

Bonlyn Jean Ormiston Speidel, a resident of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Fairdale, North Dakota, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of her children, at the age of 86.

Bonlyn was born on June 16, 1939, in Langdon, North Dakota, where she grew up on her family’s farmstead. From an early age, she learned the value of hard work—driving tractors, milking cows, and caring for the many animals on the farm. Her first and lifelong love was her horses. She fondly recalled them by name—Babe, Silver, Beauty, Ponder, and Bingo—and often spoke of her joy racing them in her younger years at the Cavalier County Fair. Ever active, Bonlyn also took great pride in her basketball days. Though the girls played only half-court, their skill and determination carried them to a state championship, a memory she treasured.

Bonlyn attended Jamestown College, graduating in 1961 with a major in physical education and a minor in mathematics. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ted Speidel. Their story always brought her laughter—Ted persistently choosing her cafeteria line while she worked serving meals. His determination paid off, and they were married in 1963 at Soper Presbyterian Church in Fairdale, North Dakota.

A devoted educator, Bonlyn began her teaching career in Stephen, Minnesota, continued in Gackle, North Dakota, and later moved to Mesa, Arizona, where she taught seventh and eighth grades at Rhodes Junior High. In 1992, she was honored as Mesa’s Middle Level Educator of the Year. Known for her compassion, patience, and deep love for her students, Bonlyn believed that every child simply needed to be loved—and she lived that belief daily. One of her greatest joys was serving as an Instructional Specialist at Rhodes, mentoring fellow teachers and passing along her legacy of care and encouragement.

After retiring in 2004, Bonlyn and Ted embraced life on the road, traveling together in their fifth wheel. They spent summers in Olathe, Colorado, and even ventured as far as Alaska. Those years were filled with cherished adventures, family time, and togetherness.

Family was the heart of Bonlyn’s life. She loved music and shared her talents generously—playing the piano while Ted sang, and later accompanying her children and grandchildren. Many Sundays were spent with her grandchildren performing at nursing homes during church services. A gifted musician, she also played the organ, violin, and a lively polka on the accordion. Bonlyn was equally accomplished in the kitchen, rising early to bake so the house would be filled with warmth and wonderful aromas. Whether cooking for two or twenty, her home was always open and welcoming.

Bonlyn will be deeply missed by her children, John Speidel and Julie (Dave) Hagar; her grandchildren, Tristann (Seth) Nez, Jacob Hagar, Bethany Hagar, Nicholas Miller, and Luke Miller; her great-granddaughter, Emmalyn Nez; and her beloved nephew and family, Steve (Cindy) Schaible, Corrine (Darrian) Croom, and Elizabeth Schaible. She is also survived by her brother, Alan Ormiston, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Maye Ormiston; her sister, Donna Olson; her husband, Ted Speidel; and her daughter, Nancy Miller.

Bonlyn’s life was one of love, service, music, and generosity. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched as a teacher, a mother, a grandmother, and a friend.

If you would like to send a memorial in her honor, please donate to the Soper Presbyterian Cemetery @11203 80th St NE. Fairdale, ND. 58229. In ℅ Jeff Ormiston.

A celebration of life will be planned after the first of the year.