Connie Hovdenes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, in Carrington, ND surrounded by her loving family. Connie grew up with a strong sense of compassion and commitment to others.

Born on November 20, 1957, in New Rockford, North Dakota, she was preceded in death by her parents, Allen & Ellen Messner, Sheyenne, ND; grandparents, George & Idelia Messner, Hamar, ND, Paul & Myrtle Smith, Sheyenne, ND; sister, Charleen Lesmeister; father and mother-in-law, Carl and Carrie Hovdenes; brothers-in-law, Frank LaMonica and Dave Knudson.

Connie is survived by her husband, Robert Hovdenes, Underwood, ND; son, Jason (Jodi) Hovdenes, Carrington, ND; daughter, Angela (Jesse) Carr, Underwood, ND; brothers, Steve (Barb) Messner, Sheyenne, ND and Dallas Messner, Fairview, MT; sisters, Colleen (Richard) Hoffner, Sheyenne, ND and Arleen (Brian) Doughtery, The Hills, Texas; sister-in-law, Jean Knudson with her children, Kayla and Amy, Minot, ND; grandchildren, Ean, Chloe & Carrie Hovdenes, Casen & Easton Carr; step grandchildren, Chaz and Jarret Bauer; step great grandchild, Haddie Bauer.

On April 6, 1979, Connie married her soulmate, Robert Hovdenes, at a beautiful ceremony in New Rockford, ND. Together, they built a life centered on family, kindness, and unwavering support of their community and family & friends. She graduated from Lake Region College as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and dedicated several years to working in nursing homes, where her compassion for others flourished. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her patients, she later founded her own day care business, where she helped guide and care for countless children, preparing them for the chapters ahead. Her joy in life came from nurturing and supporting those around her, especially her daycare kids, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Dear to Connie’s heart were her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and pride. She cherished every moment spent with them, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love. Connie also enjoyed several hobbies that brought her immense happiness. She was an avid quilter, crafting beautiful and cozy pieces that were treasured by family and friends. Her passion for baking, especially cookies, ensured that her delicious creations were a staple at family gatherings, and she took great pleasure in decorating birthday cakes, making each celebration unforgettable. These hobbies weren’t just activities; they were extensions of Connie’s nurturing spirit. Through each quilt square, spoonful of dough, and swirl of frosting, she brought joy and connection to those around her. 

Her journey may have ended, but her story is far from over. It’s echoed in every laugh, every recipe passed down, every cozy quilt wrapped around someone she loved. May we carry her warmth with us, always.

Connie’s Visitation will be Sunday, August 3, 2025, from 5:00-6:00PM followed by a Prayer Service at 6:00PM all at Evans Funeral Home, Carrington.

A Funeral Service will be held Monday, August 4, 2025, at 10:30AM at Augustana Lutheran Church, Underwood, ND.

A private Burial will be at the Riverside Cemetery, Sheyenne, ND.