Obituary: Ellen Messner

Ellen Louise Messner of Sheyenne, N.D. passed away peacefully at her lifelong home while surrounded by family.

Funeral service was held Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 at Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford, N.D. Burial was held at the Riverside Cemetery, Sheyenne, N.D. Pastor Jeff Halvorson officiated the service. Casket bearers were Ryan Hoffner, Jason Hovdenes, Jesse Lesmeister, Tyler Messner, Jacob Messner, Nathan Messner and Chase Messner. Honorary bearers were all of Ellen's family and close friends.

Ellen was born on July 28, 1937 to parents Paul and Myrtle Smith. She was sister to Lester Smith.

Ellen was a resident of Sheyenne, N.D., for over 80 years, and was an active member of the local community. She was involved in a variety of organizations over the years, including Grace Lutheran Church, 3L Homemakers Club, VFW Women's Auxiliary, and the Farm Bureau. She also volunteered at the Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd. She enjoyed supporting her children's school activities as well- she never missed a home basketball game.

Ellen was known for her quick wit, strength of character, sense of humor, and love of socializing with all her family and friends. She loved listening to music and dancing with the love of her life, Allen. The coffee pot was always on and a plate of goodies was always available at her house for anyone who stopped by the farm.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Allen Milfred Messner; her children, Colleen (Richard) Hoffner, Connie (Robert) Hovdenes, Steve (Barb) Messner, Arleen (Brian) LaMonica-Dougherty, and Dallas Messner; her grandchildren, Andrea (Dan), Ryan (Jami), Jason (Jodi), Angela (Jesse), Tina (Jason), Jesse (Jana), Tyler, Jacob, Nathan, Megan, Shelby (Nick), Nicole (Tyler), Bethanie, and Chase, and her many great-grandchildren, as well as her dogs, "the kids", Butch "Butchie" and Tootsie, her wild cats, and many friends, whom she loved like family.

Ellen is preceded in death by her daughter Char (Wayne) Lesmeister in Heaven.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ellen's memory to American Cancer Society or Grace Lutheran Church.

Arrangements by Evans Funeral Home of New Rockford.