Michelle Joette Halvorson, daughter of Eldon and Betty (Pederson) Halvorson, was born on May 17, 1957 in Ada, MN. She grew up in Twin Valley, MN and graduated from Twin Valley High School. Michelle worked various jobs in the community while raising her daughter, Tanaya, as a single parent. In the mid-1980's Michelle attended Moorhead Technical College and received her Associates Degree. She spent many years working for the Prairie Dental Center in Twin Valley. Michelle then worked for Mahnomen Health Center, Eventide Nursing Home, and Dakota Clinic. Most recently, Michelle was employed at First National Bank in Mahnomen. On February 14, 2001 Michelle was united in marriage to William Pagel at Zion Lutheran Church in Twin Valley. The couple continued to make their home in Twin Valley. In May 2010, Michelle was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She bravely fought and always kept a positive attitude. Surrounded by family, Michelle passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND.


Michelle had a wonderful zest for life and loved to laugh. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and had a special place in her heart for animals. In her spare time, Michelle liked to watch TV, especially Home and Garden and craft shows. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her smile will be missed by all who knew her.


Michelle is survived by her husband, William of Twin Valley; her daughter, Tanaya (Rick Rysavy) Halvorson of Fargo, ND; a step-son, Louis (Alyssa) Pagel of Twin Valley; one brother, Kim (Boni) Halvorson of Bismarck, ND; one sister, Kathleen (Herb) Smith of Circle Pines, MN; three grandchildren: Noah, Dawson, and Aubrey; one niece, Crystal Halvorson; and a dear friend whom she thought of as a daughter, Shelley (Mark) Gordon of Ada, MN; as well as many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Rollin Halvorson.

A memorial service was held at 2:00pm on Saturday, June 1, 2013 at Zion Lutheran Church in Twin Valley. Visitation was on Friday, May 31, 2013 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm, with a Prayer Service at 6:00pm, at the Anderson Funeral Home in Twin Valley.

Everyone was encouraged to wear the color purple to the memorial service, as it was not only her favorite color but it also the color for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness.