Thomas Messer

Funeral services for Thomas A. Messer, 74, of Dickinson, will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Stevenson Funeral Home, Dickinson. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Richardton, ND.

Visitation for Thomas will be 5:00 to 7:00 pm Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at Stevenson Funeral Home, Dickinson, with a prayer service taking place at 6:00 pm.

Thomas passed away March 6, 2026.

Thomas Alan Messer, born on August 23, 1951, in Richardton, North Dakota, was the fourth of eleven children born to John T. and Emma (Boespflug) Messer. Growing up on the farm south of Taylor, Tom often shared fond memories of his childhood. He attended country school and graduated from Taylor High School in 1970.

In 1974, Tom married Patricia Schaeffer, and together they raised five daughters: Wendy, Kari, Tanya, Jamie, and Elissa. Over the years, Tom proudly welcomed five sons-in-law, eleven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild into the family.

Tom worked at Behm's Propane for 16 years before starting his own business, Tom's Heating Service, in 1991. Known for his unwavering reliability, he built a loyal customer base who appreciated his willingness to provide help day or night. Many times, Tom would talk customers through quick fixes over the phone, saving them a service call. In 2017, he attempted to retire, but quickly realized he missed the activity and socialization.

Tom proudly served with the Dickinson Rural Fire Department for 23 years and was a member of the Eagles and the Knights of Columbus. He regularly opened his garage to host informal gatherings and family reunions. As his health declined, we are grateful for his network of friends and family who continued to check in on him.

Tom had a passion for his 1970s Chevy Cheyenne pickups and in 2021, he organized a pickup show that reflected his love and appreciation for classic vehicles. He loved to tinker and often had a project in progress. He also enjoyed watching old westerns and spending time outdoors-whether it was hunting, fishing, golfing, or gardening.

Tom will be remembered for his hardworking nature, sense of humor, and lifetime of friendships.

Tom is survived by his daughters: Wendy (Keith) Schmaltz, Bismarck; Kari (Justin) Hall, Williston; Tanya (Lane) Hall, Stanton; Jamie (Jason) Privratsky, Dickinson; Elissa (Dylan) Northrop, Dickinson; eleven grandchildren: Shayla, Sheradyn, and Braxtyn Schmaltz; Katelyn (Camdin), Kendra, and Brooklyn Hall; Zachery and Lexus Gerving; Arabella and Grayson Privratsky; Vayda and baby Northrop; great-granddaughter Oaklynn Schmaltz; siblings, Ken (Mindy) Messer, Joan (Clarence) Kuntz, Mary (Bob) Steffan, John (Pam) Messer, Donald (Rhonda) Messer, Linda (Mick) Bohn, Margie (Tony) Metz, Jim (Leslie) Messer, Tim (Cheryl) Messer, and JoCarol (Jerry) Losee; and longtime friend, Joyce Hoffer.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, John and Emma Messer.

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