Nancy Goodale

Nancy Pearl Goodale, age 89 of Beach, ND, peacefully passed away July 11, 2026 in the loving care of the staff at St. Benedicts Nursing Home in Dickinson, ND. Nancy Pearl (Higby) Goodale was born February 21, 1937 in Wibaux, MT daughter to Earl and Avis Higby. Nancy came from a large family. She was the youngest of fourteen children. She was the only one of the siblings born in a hospital. She lived much of her childhood in Carlyle, MT but as she got into her middle and high school years she moved closer to Beach, staying briefly with her friend Ardis Stedman, and eventually moving into town with her sister Dorothy. One of Nancy's first jobs was working at Durner's Cafe. Nancy graduated in the class of 1955 at Beach High School, and in June of 1956 she married Harold Duane Goodale. Her friend Lorriane Wagner stood as witness at her wedding ceremony. The marriage of Harold and Nancy welcomed three children, and together they worked hard to build a life in the Beach and Wibaux areas. Harold drilled water wells for a living under the name of Goodale Drilling and also owned and remodeled many different homes, so Nancy was always involved with some new project along the way. From living on the farm to working at Jacks Club to owning and operating a motel in Glasgow, MT, she and the kids were not far behind. In 1973 Harold and Nancy experienced a loss of one of their sons, and in 1979, Harold and Nancy also adopted their granddaughter Jessica Lee and also welcomed grandson Wade Allen. By the early 80s, Harold stopped drilling wells but continued on with carpentry while leasing and operating The Outpost Motel for a few years with Nancy's help. By the mid 80s, they also welcomed a third grandchild, Adam Lee. Nancy enjoyed making her house a home and spending time with the family while working at the Wibaux Nursing Home and Beach Hospital. She also ran Big Top Fireworks for a few summers here and there. As the 80s came to a close, Nancy decided to take on a job at Eastmont Facilities in Glendive, MT which led the family to moving to Glendive for a few years until Harold and Nancy decided to return to Beach and manage at The Buckboard Inn. As the grandkids all got older, she continued on at the Buckboard even when Harold passed away in 1998. A few years later, Nancy moved to Billings for a few years before returning to Beach and managing the Buckboard once again. Beach always seemed like home to Nancy. She made many friends in her travels in 89 years, and no matter the occasion she was always prepared to welcome you with a meal or offer you a snack. She had many hobbies and interests in life including being a lover of animals. She enjoyed cooking, reading, gardening, sewing, crocheting, knitting, Bingo, bowling, reading the newspaper, watching TV, listening to music, traveling and watching videos on her iPad. She enjoyed playing cards with friends and family and having card parties. She also played softball on The Goodale Goodie, was a member of the Garden Club, The Pie Club and was always available for coffee or lunch. In 2018 Nancy FINALLY retired from the Buckboard Inn and lived at home with the assistance of her daughter Jessica. She also enjoyed visiting her sister Lucylle in Glendive, MT up until her passing in 2022. In 2023 Nancy decided to move into facility managed care and enjoyed being there until her passing. One of her favorite movies was Forrest Gump and will always be known as a hardworking caring person. She will be forever missed in the hearts and minds of many as she is finally at peace and in heaven with those that have passed before her. Preceding her in death were her parents; 13 siblings; her husband, Harold; sons, Lee Duane and Jess Ellis; grandson, Wade Allen; and great-granddaughter, Olivia Rose. Survivors include daughters, Jessica Lee and Dovey Ann; grandson, Adam Lee; great-grandkids, Hope, Cole, Trenton, Eli, Diesel, Leland, and Cashlynn; along with many other extended family relatives. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will follow soon. A small memorial will take place September 19, 2026 at the Beach Community Center starting at 12:30 pm. Friends and Family are welcome to attend. Lunch will be provided. In lieu of flowers, send cards and condolences to Silha Funeral Home, PO Box 488, Beach ND 58621. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.SilhaFuneralHomes.com.

Nancy Goodale

February 21, 1937 - July 11, 2026

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Nancy Goodale

February 21, 1937 - July 11, 2026

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

365 Days of Grief Support