Gregory Jon Messner

Gregory Jon Messner

age 72, of Andover, died at home surrounded by his wife and children Sat, Feb 3^rd, 2024 after a hard fought battle with prostate cancer. He was born in New Ulm, graduated from Anoka High School in 1969, and served in the Air Force from 1970-1976. He worked in the grocery industry for 43 years starting as a bag-boy and becoming store director early in his career. Greg was the kind of person others wanted to work for; he treated everyone equally and with respect, creating lasting friendships along the way. If Greg could choose how to spend a day, it would be on a lake fishing, working outside in his yard, or traveling to state and national parks. He spent a great deal of time on Lake Emily and most recently visited Custer State Park and Yellowstone National Park.

Survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Diane Messner; children Lissa Messner, Amber (Ryan) Huffman, Angie (James) Messner, Sarah (Jay) Tschida, Drew (Anna) Messner, and Laura (Chris) DeSpain; grandchildren: Sterling, Meadow, Ella, Blaze, Quinn, Isabelle, and Nora; mother JoAnne Messner and sister Peggy Messner. Preceded in death by his father Earl Messner, who he considered his best friend, as well as his father-in-law Don House and mother-in-law Rosemary House. Loving husband, compassionate father and caring grandfather; Greg was a dedicated family man who often stated his greatest accomplishment in life was his six children. His selflessness, honesty, and character are reflected in his children and will be passed onto his grandchildren. Greg was a man of few words but when he spoke, it was heartfelt and genuine making those around him feel supported and loved.

Please join the family at Champlin United Methodist Church on Monday, February 12th for a visitation at 12pm and Celebration of Life at 1pm. Donations in his honor can be made to the National Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) or Zero Prostate Cancer (zerocancer.org). The family would like to thank numerous friends and extended family for their incredible support, as well as Dr. King and the Fridley MN Oncology team, Jennifer and the Provenge team from MN Urology, and Allina Hospice.