Leslie W. Messersmith

Leslie W. Messersmith, age 68, of Wilson, MI, passed away Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at UP Health System in Marquette. He was born to Irvin and Velda (Schwark) Messersmith on April 21, 1953 in Escanaba, MI. He was raised on the family dairy farm in Wilson, MI with his four brothers and one sister. He attended Wilson Junior Academy from 1st through 10th grade and then continued his education at Wisconsin Academy in Columbus, Wisconsin and graduated in 1971. While attending Wisconsin Academy, he met his wife Nancy Schultz. They married in July of 1973 and started their life together in Clear Lake, WI where all three of their children were born. After living in Clear Lake for 8 years, Leslie was called back to Wisconsin Academy to hold a position to supervise students on the academy dairy farm. Two years later, in 1983, his parents were ready to retire, so the family moved to Wilson, MI to take over the family farm. After milking cows on the family farm for 37 years, Leslie sold the dairy cows and began raising heifers in a move toward retirement.

Each spring he looked forward to making syrup from their own maple trees on the farm - the whole family getting involved, and all having a great time together.

During the summer, Leslie enjoyed spending time with his family camping, canoeing, hiking, bicycling and attending Wisconsin Campmeeting. He also loved the game of baseball and made it a priority to attend all his kids ball games. He also enjoyed teaching and playing baseball with his grandkids.

Most recently, Leslie and Nancy traveled around the UP hiking to the many scenic waterfalls – a memory that will be forever cherished.

Leslie always looked forward to the many family reunions held throughout the years. He loved spending time and visiting with each family member.

He also loved spending time outdoors in the winter, skiing, snowshoeing and working in the woods.

Leslie was a long-time member of the Wilson SDA Church and held a variety of church and school positions throughout the years.

He was honored to be a member of the Gourley Township Volunteer Fire Department and served for 32 years. Leslie had a big heart and would often drop everything to help someone in need.

Leslie W. Messersmith is survived by his wife Nancy, of 48 years, of Wilson, MI; daughter, Jamie (Glen) Pearson of Wilson, MI; son, Jason (Melanie) Messersmith of Wilson, MI; daughter-in-law, Kristy Messersmith of Kaukauna, WI; grandchildren, Blaine Pearson, Tanner Pearson, Lucia Messersmith, Sawyer Pearson, Gordon Messersmith, Moesly Messersmith, and Teddy Messersmith; brothers, Keith (Colleen) Messersmith of Lamar, CO, Clair Messersmith of Beloit, WI, and Gailyn (Valerie) Messersmith of Bark River, MI; sister, Darlene (Howard) Walden of Wilson, MI; sister-in-law, Nancy Messersmith of Sturgeon Bay, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Leslie was preceded in death by son, Marcus Messersmith; and twin brother, Leroy Messersmith.

On Sunday, December 19, 2021, at the Wilson Seventh-Day Adventist Church, visitation will be held from 10:30 to 12:00 (EST). Funeral services, celebrating the life of Leslie, will follow at 12:00, with Pastor Hubbard officiating. Burial will take place immediately following the funeral services in the Wilson Seventh-Day Adventist Church Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the conclusion of the graveside services at the Wilson Junior Academy.  

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