Lavina Inglish, born on October 10, 1946, in Bismarck, North Dakota, at Saint Alexius Hospital, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. She began her life’s journey in Bismarck, where she graduated from eighth grade at the school Gibbs Number 32. Lavina’s industrious spirit shone early on, as she started working at the local bus depot and then moved on to the Drumstick Café, where she worked until 1973. 

In pursuit of new opportunities, Lavina relocated to Medina, North Dakota, where she became a cherished member of the community. She first took ownership of a café and later purchased Little Luke’s Bar, which is now Gundy’s Bar. It was during this time that she met Herman Inglish, whom she married in May 1981. The couple was blessed with their only child in June 1982.

In 1986, Lavina sold the bar and joined Dakota Bake and Serve in Jamestown, working there for two years before acquiring the Coffee Cup Café, which she owned and operated until 2001. Her culinary ventures left a lasting impact on the community. Following her tenure at the café, Lavina worked at Newman Signs in Jamestown until her retirement.

Retirement, however, did not slow her down. Lavina found immense joy in working at two bars in Medina, where she excelled in socializing with patrons, making many friends who became like family. She fondly referred to her dear friends, including Nancy Heinle-Bodvig, and Billie Peleschak and Dawn Baugh, whom she referred to as her adopted children. 

In October 2022, Lavina moved to Golden Acres Manor in Carrington, North Dakota. There, she found a new community of friends and caretakers who became an important part of her life. The staff and fellow residents at Golden Acres held a special place in her heart.

Lavina is preceded in death by her parents, Lucas and Mary Brilz, baby Irene Brilz, siblings Virgil and Della (sister-in-law) Brilz, Lorraine Semel, Clarence Brilz, Arlen Hillius (brother-in-law), and Kathleen and Ernie (brother-in-law).

She is survived by her beloved son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Holly Inglish; her treasured grandchildren, Gemma, Gabe, Grace, Gannon, and Genevieve; her dear sister Irene Hillius; and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy.

Lavina’s life was marked by hard work, a deep love for her community, and a special talent for connecting with people. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held in Lavina’s honor to celebrate her life and the countless lives she touched. Flowers are welcome however prefer donations be made to the Golden Acres Nursing Home Foundation in Carrington or the St. Mary Catholic Church of Medina, reflecting Lavina’s lifelong commitment to her community.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation – 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Friday, July 12, 2024 at the Eddy Funeral Home, Jamestown.

Rosary – 6:30 p.m., Friday, July 12 at the funeral home, with a Prayer Service to follow at 7:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial – 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 13, 2024 at St. Mathias Catholic Church, Windsor, ND, with Father Peter Sharpe, celebrant.

Burial – Medina Cemetery, Medina, ND.