Matthew John Hjelden

MATTHEW JOHN HJELDEN

Matthew John Hjelden, age 40, of Watford City, formerly Northwood, died on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at a Minot hospital as a result of a car accident. A private service will be held, honoring Matt’s wishes.

Matt Hjelden, son of David and Pamela (Hagen) Hjelden, was born at Crookston, MN on December 14, 1978. In 1997 Matt graduated from Northwood High School.  Matt continued his education at UND receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree.  Matt received a Masters of Audiology at Cal State University, Northridge, California. He worked in California, and Minnesota as an Audiologist. 

On February 27, 2010 Matt married Melissa Samuelson in Jamaica.   In 2013 they moved to Watford City where he was a self-employed Audiologist.  Matt and Missy were blessed with the birth of a daughter, Nova Rose in 2017.    Matt loved to spend time with Missy and Nova, at the family lake home, and playing with his dog Oscar.  He enjoyed playing basketball, running, watching most sporting events, especially the Vikings and Twins, listening to music, singing karaoke, and connecting with friends.

He is survived by his wife, Dr. Melissa (Missy) Hjelden and daughter, Nova.  Matt’s father, David (Mary) Hjelden; mother, Pamela Ness; sister, Melissa (David) Bartholomew; nephew Michael, niece Madelyn, Stepbrother Grant (Kylee) Ness. Stepsister Kelsey (Chris) Morem, and their daughter Quinn and Stepbrother Jeremy Lilleoien. Curtis and Charlene Samuelson, father and mother in law.  Sister and brothers in law: Corey (Lisa) Samuelson, Elizabeth (Joel) Lockhart, Scott (Michaela) Samuelson, as well as eight nieces and nephews.

Matt was preceded in death by his step-father, Lee Ness.

Memorials are preferred to 1^st International Bank and Trust, with branches in Watford City, and Grand Forks, ND for Nova’s education.