North Dakota – North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong issued a heartfelt statement Monday following the passing of state Rep. Cynthia “Cindy” Schreiber-Beck of Wahpeton, remembering her as a dedicated public servant whose work impacted communities across the state.
“Cindy Schreiber-Beck served the citizens of North Dakota with a quiet strength and determination that touched so many facets of life, from agriculture and aviation to education and community development, and it was an honor to call her a friend,” Armstrong said.
Schreiber-Beck, who represented District 25 in the North Dakota House of Representatives, passed away after years of service marked by leadership and compassion. First elected in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 and 2022, she served on the House Education and Agriculture committees, where she advocated for key legislation supporting North Dakota’s farmers, students, and aviation sector.
“She embodied what it means to be a public servant, a volunteer and someone who gives back to their community, their industry and their profession,” Armstrong said. “Her care and compassion for our farmers, students and North Dakotans from every walk of life was evident in everything she did in the legislative chambers and the private sector.”
In addition to her legislative work, Schreiber-Beck played a pivotal role in North Dakota aviation. She and her late husband, Gerry Beck, operated Tri-State Aviation in Wahpeton. After his passing in 2007, she continued running the business while also serving as executive director of the North Dakota Agricultural Aviation Association for nearly 40 years.
Her dedication earned her induction into the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame on March 4, 2025, where she became the 50th person to receive the honor. She was also a longtime commissioner on the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (1997–2022) and contributed to the development of the state’s unmanned aerial systems program, helping to establish North Dakota as one of the nation’s first UAS test sites in 2013.
In honor of her service, Armstrong ordered all United States and North Dakota flags to be flown at half-staff from dawn until dusk on the day of her interment. He encouraged residents across the state to do the same at homes and businesses in tribute.
“Kjersti and I extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and legislative colleagues,” Armstrong said. An updated flag advisory will be issued once funeral arrangements are finalized.
