William Earl Messenger

William "Willie" Messenger Jr., 96, of Fergus Falls, died Saturday, November 1, 2025 at PioneerCare in Fergus Falls.

William Earl Messenger Jr., was born in a house on East Mount Faith Avenue July 12, 1929 to William Earl Sr. and Pearl (Graber) Messenger in Fergus Falls. He was the first of four children. Willie started his career as a paperboy, then worked at Bell Telephone for a couple years. He graduated from Fergus Falls High School in 1947. He and Harold Lindblom created houses. He had his own cabinet shop in the 60's and went to work for Archie Miller building Archie's in Moorhead. In 1974 he started working for Anderson Bros Construction as a foreman until his retirement in 1991.

He was married and they had two sons; the couple later divorced. He then met Marlene (Haagenson) Wicklund, they fell in love and were married. The couple was married over 53 years.

He was involved with his sons as a Boy Scout Master, coaching little league baseball, and was the Director and President of the Fergus Falls Hockey Association. Willie was also the President of Cleveland School PTA and a Deacon at the Federated Church. In later years, Willie was President of the Rough Riders Snowmobile Club and the Otter Country Trail Association. He was a director on the board for the Jewett Lake Association. He joined the Fergus Falls Fire Department in 1963 and retired in 1980 due to the family move to the lake. He was a member of the Eagles and also Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he was confirmed in 1972.

Willie retired in 1991 but continued his love of wood working; making many beautiful pieces. He enjoyed fishing, especially ice fishing. He also enjoyed hunting, getting his last deer at the age of 92. Willie and Marlene enjoyed many bus trips and snowmobile outings.

Survivors include his wife, Marlene; his two sons, Dave and Steve Messenger; Marlene's children, Joni (Ernie) Schmitt, Richard and Robert Wicklund; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his sister, Helen Sundeen, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his sister, Marcella and his brother, Gene.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 7, 2025 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Clergy: Reverend Loren Mellum

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com