Melissa Ann Hassebroek, age 59 of Redwood Falls, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at her home. A public visitation will be held 4:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 28 at the Redwood Valley Funeral Home. A private service for family and close friends will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 29 at the Redwood Valley Funeral Home. Burial will be at a later date. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Melissa Ann Hassebroek was born February 24, 1967, in Worthington, Minnesota, to Roger and Diane (Witt) Hassebroek. She attended school in Worthington through 5th grade before moving with her family to Redwood Falls, where she graduated from Redwood Falls High School in 1985. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. While still in college, Melissa began working as an advocate for children with developmental disabilities, a career she continued for over 30 years. She was passionate about her work and dedicated herself to helping others. In recognition of her commitment, she received the ANCOR National Advocacy Direct Support Professional of the Year in 2011 and traveled to Washington DC to accept the award. In 2022, Melissa returned to Redwood Falls and eventually joined Public Health as a Senior Office Support Specialist. She loved her work and especially valued the close-knit group of coworkers she worked alongside. Melissa was a member of the Redwood Falls American Legion Auxiliary. She always had a pet cat to keep her company, attended countless concerts, and thoroughly enjoyed driving her Dodge Chargers with a Hemi engine. She also cherished trips to Mexico with family and friends, including a memorable year when she went skydiving! Above all, Melissa treasured her family and friends and the time they shared. She was kind, modest, and generous, always making sure others’ needs were met, often putting her own needs aside. Melissa was deeply loved by her family and friends and will be missed more than words can express.

Melissa is survived by her parents, Roger and Diane Hassebroek of Redwood Falls; brother, Chad (Shannon) Hassebroek of Shakopee; nephew, Austin Hassebroek; Madonna and Chad Sevatson; friends, Belinda & Joel Blomgren; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.