Missy Jo Ward

Melissa (Missy) Jo Ward, age 56 of Carlton, passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 28, 2025.

Missy grew up in Carlton, MN and was a proud, closet, Bulldog. She loved making people laugh, caring for her family, making homemade dinners, cherry chapstick and her little sidekick, Archie. Missy took pride in her two daughters, Kaitrin and Sydney. She was so proud of everything that they accomplished and loved helping them navigate the beginning of their own adult lives. Missy loved being a mother more than anything in the entire world.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Herb and her beloved dog, Cooper.

Missy is survived by her daughters Kaitrin (Brady) and Sydney (Matthew); her sister and best friend, Jolee (Mark) Sunnarborg; grandmother, Phyllis Madsen; parents, Stan and Candy Swedberg; brother, Snoose (Amy) Swedberg; stand-in grandchildren, Ari and Beckett; and several nephews, nieces, close friends and loved ones.

Per Missy's request, there will be no formal funeral service, a celebration of life will be held at Hank's Sports Bar and Grill in Scanlon on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 3-5 PM. She would want everyone to come wearing the brightest colors they can find and fill the room with laughter.

Kaitrin, Sydney and the family would like to send their deepest gratitude for the outpouring support from family, friends, and the community.