In Loving Memory of Melissa Lynn Clausen

February 12, 1972 – February 13, 2026

Melissa Lynn Clausen, age 54, of Apple Valley, passed away unexpectedly on February 13, 2026. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on February 12, 1972, to Barbara Lynn Lundemo (Clausen-Hansen) and the late Gerald Stephen Clausen, Melissa—or Missy, as she was often called—was a woman of fiery spirit, strong opinions, and a heart that found beauty in the world around her.

Throughout a life defined by strength, resilience, and motherhood, Missy navigated personal challenges and hardships with a grit that was uniquely her own. This strength of character was most evident in her relationship with her daughter, Lyndsey. Missy’s love for Lyndsey was fierce and unwavering; she was her daughter's greatest supporter, and the two shared a deep connection built on a foundation of the same strong-willed traits.

Family anchors were the central, if sometimes turbulent, core of Missy’s life. Throughout her journey, her mother, Barbara, was her biggest supporter. They remained deeply connected through many years of shared history, weathering "ups and downs" and the spirited disagreements that come when two strong-willed women care for each other deeply. Missy also shared a special bond with her grandmother, Evelyn; after the passing of her grandfather, Oris, Missy was Evelyn's most frequent visitor, providing dedicated care and companionship that meant the world to them both. Missy was also deeply impacted by the loss of her father, Stephen, with whom she shared a very close bond. Missy is also survived by her husband, Darrin. Together, they shared a long history and a home, navigating life’s many chapters side by side. Darrin is left heartbroken by her sudden passing, mourning the woman who was a constant presence in his life for many years.

In her home full of life, Missy was a true collector who loved to surround herself with things that made her smile. Her house was a reflection of her interests, filled with treasures, Mickey and Minnie Mouse memorabilia, and her love for Monarch butterflies. She also took pride in caring for many plants throughout her home, enjoying tending them. Most importantly, her home was filled with the companionship of her beloved dogs and cats. Like her mother, she also found joy in the kitchen, frequently trying new recipes—the spicier, the better.

Whether at work or play, Missy lived for the "now," whether she was running her own house-cleaning business or greeting friends as a server at the Apple Valley American Legion. She was an optimistic pull-tabber who truly believed the next big win was in the very next ticket. She had a vibrant personality and truly loved being in the middle of a good gathering.

Melissa is survived by her daughter, Lyndsey (Jake) Clausen; her husband, Darrin Bergstrom; her stepson, Gunnar Bergstrom; and her mother, Barbara Clausen-Hansen (Richard). She is also survived by her brother, Shane (Jessica) Clausen; her nephew and niece, Colton and Addison Clausen; and her aunt and Godmother, Carole Steinke. Missy was part of a large and loving family of cousins, including Chris Schwartz, Jason Schwartz, Katie Gibbs, Jonah Clausen, Mathew Clausen, and Alicia Clausen, as well as many others whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her father, Gerald Stephen Clausen; her maternal grandparents, Evelyn and Oris Lundemo; and her paternal grandparents, Virginia and Gerald Clausen.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, March 1st, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Apple Valley American Legion. Friends and family are welcome to come and go as they please to honor Missy’s memory. Opportunities to share stories and commemorate her life will begin at roughly 1:45 PM (Missy was rarely on time), with a meal provided by the American Legion to follow.