Michelle "Shelly" Stensgard

Michelle Rae "Shelly" (Swan) Stensgard, daughter of M. Gale and Myrna Swan, was born September 19, 1961, in Moorhead, MN. She was raised in Fargo, ND, and attended Fargo North High School. She worked in the food service industry, at several restaurants, and was most recently employed at Marlin's Family Restaurant in Fargo.

Michelle was blessed with two sons, Christopher and Tyler Stensgard, whom she loved dearly. Her family and friends were a big part of her life. She spent many hours entertaining and sitting around the bon fire. Michelle also loved children, and especially loved spending time with her grandson, Jaiden Stensgard, son of Christopher and Sondra. Her dogs were another love, and animals were a joy to her.

Michelle passed away unexpectedly Sunday, September 22, 2013, at Sanford Health, Fargo, due to complications of a blood disorder, at fifty-two years of age. She was loved by all and always had a ready smile.

Michelle is survived by her two sons, Christopher (Sondra) Stensgard, Fargo, and Tyler Stensgard, Valley City, ND; mother, Myrna Swan, Vergas, MN; brother, Michael (Janeen) Swan, Prosper, ND; grandson, Jaiden, Fargo; nephews, Jake and Derek Swan, Moorhead; many cousins, aunts and uncles; and the love of her life, Kevin Riveland and his extended family, of Fargo.

She was preceded in death by her father, M. Gale Swan; two grandmothers, and one cousin, Shane Wilson, who passed away September 19, 2013.

There will be a Gathering of Friends Wednesday, September 25, 2013, from 5 - 7 PM, with a prayer service at 6:30 PM, at Grace United Methodist Church, Moorhead, A Celebration of Life service will be Thursday, September 26, 2013, at 2 PM, at Grace United Methodist Church.