Tamra “Tammy” Jean Ness, 59, of Ada, Minn., passed away surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Born on February 11, 1965, in Oakes, N.D., she was the first daughter of Gene and Janet Hajek. 
Tammy’s academic journey was a shining example of dedication and intellect. She graduated from LaMoure Public High School in 1983. She earned a B.S. in education from Valley City State University in 1988, with a double major in math education and computer science, a testament to her hard work and passion.
She was all-conference in high school basketball and won numerous awards in track and field in the long jump, high jump, relay, and hurdles at the N.D. State Track and Field meets in high school. She continued to run track and field at NDSU and Valley City State University.
She worked in Computer I.T. for 20 years in Fargo, N.D., and Ada, Minn., where she made significant contributions to the field. When Tammy wasn’t at work, she spent her time crafting, whether that included cross-stitching, scrapbooking, or knitting. She also played golf, wallyball, and racquetball regularly. In addition, she was a member of the golf board in Ada, Minn. She attended many Ada-Borup Cougar sporting events to support her three daughters. She continued that support during her youngest daughter’s college volleyball career at MSUM.
Tammy’s love for her family was immeasurable. She is survived by her parents, Gene and Janet Hajek, and sister, Michelle Berry. She is also survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Erik Ness, Ada, Minn.; their three children, Kim (Kory) Ruggles, New England N.D., Krissy (Lee) Block, Fargo, N.D., and Katy (Andrew) VanHavermaet, Hawley, Minn., and her five grandchildren, Kaiden, Reagan, Hudson, Miles, and Callen. Her family was her world, and she will forever be in their hearts.
Tammy will be remembered for her kindness, competitiveness, and laughter. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for outpouring love and support during this difficult time.
Her family welcomes flowers and plants to be sent to St. Joseph’s Church or to donate in her name to the ND/MN chapter for Alzheimer’s Awareness, the disease that she bravely fought until the end.
Tammy will be laid to rest in a private ceremony in the Rosehill cemetery in LaMoure, ND.
Memorial Mass: 11:00 AM, Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ada, MN.
Visitation: 9:00 AM to the time of the mass on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Please view our guestbook and share condolences online at www.fredriksonfh.com
Arrangements with Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Homes
Ada & Halstad, Minnesota
