SDPB is deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Melissa Hamersma Sievers.
Melissa passed away Thursday, August 19, at Sanford USD Medical Center-Sioux Falls after warrior-like battles with lymphoma and West Nile Virus. She was 42. 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.
SDPB will be celebrating Melissa’s life and work throughout the coming weeks. In the meantime, we mourn a dear friend, colleague, and bright light in the world.
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
Interment at Sievers Family Farm directly following the service.
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.
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.