Evelyn J. (Walworth) Messman

Evelyn Julia Messman, 84, of Medford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Rhinelander Aspirus Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family.

​Evelyn was born December 15, 1941, in the Medford Hospital to Homer and Mary (Mathias) Walworth. Evelyn spent her childhood growing up in Perkinstown and was a proud graduate of Medford Area Schools, receiving her diploma in 1959. Shortly after, on December 26, 1959, she married the love of her life, Herbert Messman, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church Parsonage. Together, they shared 64 years of devoted marriage built on a foundation of faith, family, and hard work.

​Evelyn worked side-by-side with Herbert on their dairy farm while raising their five children. In 1977, after selling the farm, Evelyn began a 25-year career with Tombstone Pizza, retiring in 2002. Retirement only gave her more time for the things she loved: gardening, canning, and traveling to visit her growing family. She was a grandmother in the truest sense—patient, joyful, and always ready with a hug or a treat. Her family was her greatest pride.

​A woman of deep faith, Evelyn lived her life in service to others. Whether it was a fresh pan of cookies for a neighbor or her signature pumpkin bars for a friend in need, she was a living example of 1 Peter 4:10. She believed her gifts were meant to be shared, and her kitchen was often the heart of her ministry. When she wasn't serving others, she was cheering for her team. A dedicated Green Bay Packers shareholder and fan, Evelyn’s family knew better than to call her while the "Green and Gold" were on the field.

​For those fortunate enough to have known Evelyn, her life serves as a beautiful example in what it means to truly love. Nowhere was this more evident than in her selfless devotion to Herbert; the sacrifice and care she provided him during his final years was a profound testament to her character. She didn't always have much, but she possessed an infinite willingness to share what she had. We will all miss her infectious laugh—the kind that instantly made your day better—and her rare ability to see the very best in everyone she met. Evelyn’s journey on earth has ended, but the lessons of her kindness, her sacrifice, and her joy will live on in all of us.

​She is survived by her five children: Robert (Kathy) Messman and James (Lori) Messman, all of Medford; Mark (Philicity) Messman of Burtrum, MN; Pam (Mitchell) Voelker of Marshfield; and Kim (Brandt) Gaugler of Beach, ND. She also leaves behind her siblings, Donald (Ardella) Walworth and Lois (Galen) Messman; sisters-in-law Darlene Walworth, Ardith Hendrickson, and Helen Walworth; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

​Evelyn was preceded in death by her loving husband, Herbert; her parents; brothers Ervin, Bob, and Joseph; sister Betty; brothers-in-law Howard Messman and Donald Hendrickson; nephews Shawn Walworth and Ron Hendrickson; and niece Michelle Thomas.

Evelyn’s funeral service will be held at 4:30 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Medford with Rev. David Spaude officiating.  Visitation will be from 2:30 p.m. until the time of service at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at the church.  Immediately following the service, please join the family for a meal in the church fellowship hall.

Evelyn will be laid to rest on Monday, January 26 at 1 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery II, Medford.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated and will be designated by the family at a later time.

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