Joanne Messelt

Joanne Messelt, 74, of Fargo, ND, passed away July 6, 2024, at Essentia Health in Ada, MN.

Joanne was born October 15, 1949, in Cando, ND, to Edward and Lila (Lee) Nichols. She grew up in Sarles, ND and graduated from Border Central Calvin High School in 1967. After graduation, she moved to Grand Forks, ND where she met the love of her life, Paul Messelt. They were married in 1973 and moved to Devils Lake, ND, where they resided until moving to Fargo in 1980. 

Over the years, Joanne worked as a waitress and cleaning staff for various businesses, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Fargo, ND. 

Joanne always looked forward to days spent searching for treasures at thrift stores and garage sales, followed by lunch, with her stepdaughter, Deb. She also enjoyed crafting and she loved the no-nonsense approach of her favorite T.V. personality, Judge Judy. While she was a quiet soul who kept mostly to herself, she enjoyed the social network provided by her computer. 

Joanne is survived by her husband, Paul Messelt, of Fargo, ND; her brothers, Barry (Trisha) Nichols, Blaine (Darlene) Nichols and Brad (Angie) Nichols; her sisters, Penny Nichols, Jodee (Dan) Lagein and Paula Perez; her stepchildren, Deb (Curtis) Hawkinson and Bob (Kelly) Messelt; her grandchildren, Vanessa (Ryan) Kuntz, Justine (Alex) Puppe, Lauren Hawkinson and Conner Hawkinson, and great-grandchildren, Ava, Mila, Paisley, Leah and Logan.

 She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Ole Nichols and Susan Nichols. 

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 2:00 P.M., with visitation for one hour before the service, at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN.