Sgt. Joseph Clemens Feser passed away on August 17, 2024, the day before his 22nd birthday. Having just returned from deployment in Syria for Operation Inherent Resolve on August 16, Joseph’s passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and community.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, August 28, at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, 519 Raymond St, Bismarck. Visitation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 27, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck, followed by a vigil at 7:00 PM. Burial will be at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan.
Joseph was born on August 18, 2002, to his parents Gregory and Melissa Feser. Arriving as an early anniversary gift, Joseph brought immense joy to his family. From an early age, he demonstrated a curious and adventurous spirit, earning the nickname “Mr. Goo” for his sticky hands and his mischievous habit of climbing walls. Joseph’s early passion for the military was evident in his love of playing ‘army’ and dressing up as a soldier for Halloween. At the age of three, he began training in ATA Taekwondo, achieving his black belt by the age of six.
Joseph shared a special bond with his older sister, Danielle. Whether he attended all her dance recitals or played Barbies with her (albeit with promises of payment that were never fulfilled), Joseph’s care and love for Danielle were unwavering. They shared a favorite song, “Soak Up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow, which held sentimental value for them both. When Danielle married her husband, Anthony, Joseph was deployed but made a heartfelt call on her wedding day, expressing his joy and offering the touching wish: “I hope you two soak up the sun.”
Joseph was also incredibly close with his parents. Gregory recalls the countless hours they spent together on the family farm working on welding projects and other hands-on activities. Melissa fondly remembers Joseph’s enthusiasm in the kitchen, often suggesting ways to “elevate” recipes with his creative flair. The family’s two border collies, Lola and Luna, were equally cherished by Joseph, even after mischievous moments like a broken arm from Lola and an accident in his bedroom involving Luna.
A graduate of Century High School in 2020, Joseph was a National Honor Society member. During high school, he actively volunteered for organizations like Papa’s Pumpkin Patch and Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue. In November 2019, he enlisted in the North Dakota Army National Guard and completed Basic and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, specializing as a 14G Air Defense Battle Management System Operator. In addition to his military service, Joseph worked as a supervisor in Costco’s Tire Center, cherishing his “Costco family” and looking forward to returning to work post-deployment.
