Melissa Sievers passed away at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD at the age of 42 years, after warrior-like battles with lymphoma and West Nile Virus. Melissa leaves behind her devoted husband Nick Sievers and their sons Owen, age 9, and Isaac, age 4.

Melissa worked as a videographer/editor, photographer, and producer for SDPB for 19 years. In that time, Melissa told countless stories about the people, places, and food and culture across South Dakota, most recently as producer for Dakota Life. Melissa said of her work: "The people I visit with are so passionate. So many of the stories are about tenacity and connection to the land. I feel like I pay tribute not only to people who came before, but to a variety of people exploring and trying to do things differently."

In addition to videography and photography, Melissa loved nature and outdoor activities: bicycling, kayaking, hiking, morel mushroom hunting, gardening, and raising vegetables and chickens at home on the farm she shared with Nick and the boys. Melissa also loved introducing her young sons to the natural world. Owen and Isaac often accompanied Mom on her many outdoor adventures as well as on photo and video shoots.

Celebration of Life Services for Melissa Hamersma Sievers

Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2021

UCC- United Church of Christ Congregational Church, 226 Main Street, Vermillion

10am - Visitation at Church Entrance

11am – Service

The service will be livestreamed on Facebook @UCCVermillion and UCC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe9pOn8WHjj01DbQkfyhvAA

After Melissa is laid to rest, guests are invited to to celebrate Melissa at the farmstead. You are asked to bring your own chairs, blankets, and, due to the expected scale of the gathering, food & drink for yourself. Restroom facilities and garbage service on-site.

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Melissa's husband Nick Sievers is thankful for the outpouring of generous support.

In gratitude, Nick wants to help other children and families, and asks that contributions celebrating Melissa's love and generosity be sent to the Vermillion Food Pantry at www.vermillionfoodpantry.org/donate or Vermillion Food Pantry, 9 Court Street, Vermillion, SD 57069.