Brian Allen Mesedahl

Brian Allen Mesedahl, 62, of Duluth passed away Monday, November 22nd, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital.

He was born February 20th, 1959 in Duluth, MN to Marlyn “Mike” and Barbara Mesedahl. Brian was a lifelong resident of Duluth, growing up in Duluth Heights alongside his five brothers and sisters and many cousins whom he maintained close relationships with throughout his adulthood until his passing. He would talk fondly of his childhood memories of hunting and fishing.

Brian married the love of his life, his soulmate, the former Diane Schaumberg, on August 11th, 1979. They always knew they wanted to be parents and after years of struggles and heartbreak, they finally met the missing piece to their family puzzle when they adopted their pride and joy, Krystal, on January 14th, 1988. Brian and Krystal shared an indescribable bond that will never be forgotten.

For over 20 years, Brian worked for ISD #709 where he worked at several schools throughout the years; ensuring buildings were clean and up and running for staff and students. He truly prided himself in his role at every school he worked at and he had a work ethic like no other. He never felt his job stopped at cleaning and maintenance as he strived to be the smiling face that put everyone at ease during the school day. It was not uncommon that a student would stop him at a store and thank ‘Mr. Mesedahl’ for being the friendly man who made elementary school a safe and fun place to be. He would beam any time this happened.

Due to a chronic illness, CMT (cmtausa.org), Brian made the difficult decision to retire in 2003. He shared his passion of ATV trail riding with Diane, and they would venture out as his health would allow. One of their most special memories together was a road trip to South Dakota.

Brian had a passion for fixing things. It could be a broken shelf (that he’d likely turn into a whole new cabinet), a car (that he’d probably end up detailing for you) or any problem that someone needed help with. He was the ‘go-to’ guy if you needed someone to listen to your engine, or if you simply needed someone to just listen. He was known for being a problem-solver, but always knew just being there was enough; several of his nephews would call him for advice or to get his feedback on their own current projects. He took advantage of every opportunity he could to help someone or to spread kindness.  This was not limited to family; for years, he was known to get up early and plow the neighborhood driveways or he would stop a stranger who looked lost to ask if they needed help. Along with his innate compassion and genuine big-heartedness, he consistently tried his best to be a positive voice of reason. He was always the goofy guy who unofficially coined the term ‘dad joke’ many years ago.

In 2009, Brian gained the proud title of ‘Grandpa’ when his only grandchild, William, was born. He and William loved fishing, fixing cars, ATV’ing, shooting and just being together. He found a new passion in passing down everything he knew to his grandson. They talked often about their dream to restore an old car together that William would drive as his first car.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Carl and Thelma Schaumberg; many aunts and uncles who were like parents; several cousins whom he remembered fondly; brother-in-law, Rick Lueck; nephew, Jesse Leonzal; son-in-law, Ryan Howes; and numerous friends he had impacted over the years.

Brian is survived by his dedicated wife of 42 years, Diane; beloved daughter, Krystal; treasured grandson, William; sisters, Roberta (Mike) Leonzal and Kathy (Eddie) Lueck; brothers, Michel Mesedahl, Neil Mesedahl and Dan (Tina) Mesedahl; nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply; siblings-in-laws, Brian (June) Schaumberg and Pat Leyes & Sharon; several close friends; special mention to his dear friend, Gordy; and his other (furry) daughter, Ruby.

In consideration of their loved ones’ health, Brian’s family will be having a Celebration of Life at a later date when travel is safe (as he would have wished).  We thank everyone for your condolences during this extremely difficult time.

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