Early Life and Education
Natasha Mae “Tasha” Fester, born on September 13, 1990, in Willmar, Minnesota, was a beacon of light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Tasha was the beloved daughter of Jeff and Lisa (Chase) Adkins. She was baptized at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Chokio, where her journey of faith began, and later confirmed her faith at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar.
Growing up in Willmar, Tasha was an active and vibrant child, always ready to participate in various activities. Her educational journey began at Willmar High School, where she graduated with the Class of 2009. During her high school years, Tasha was a member of the Cardettes Dance Team, participated in volleyball and track, and was actively involved in FFA. Her outgoing personality and friendly nature earned her many friends and admirers.
Higher Education and Career
After high school, Tasha pursued her passion for nursing, starting her higher education at Ridgewater College, where she earned her LPN degree. She then continued her education at Rasmussen College in St. Cloud, obtaining her RN degree. Tasha’s commitment to nursing didn’t stop there; she furthered her education at Mankato State, where she earned her BSN degree. This dedication to her studies and her profession led her to a position as the administrator of C.A.R.E.
In August 2023, Tasha achieved another significant milestone by earning her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree from the University of North Dakota. She began working at CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital in November 2023 as a PMHNP, where she truly poured her heart and soul into caring for others. Tasha loved her work and looked forward to it each day, making a profound impact on the lives of her patients and colleagues.
Family and Personal Life
Tasha’s personal life was filled with love and joy. On July 7, 2012, she married Matthew Fester at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar. The couple initially lived in Atwater for nine years before moving to Grove City in 2019. Their union was blessed with four beautiful children: Mason (12), Marshel (8), Maxton (5), and MaKinlee (3). Tasha’s love for her family was boundless. She enjoyed spending time with her children, watching and supporting them in all their sporting activities, and cheering them on enthusiastically. She was known as their loudest cheerleader and the giver of the best hugs.
Hobbies and Interests
Tasha had a wide range of interests and hobbies. She had a kind heart and was always there for anyone in need. She loved demo derbies and stock car racing, often attending events with her family. Tasha was also an avid DIY enthusiast, always having a Pinterest project in progress. She found joy in creating and bringing her ideas to life.
One of Tasha’s most cherished relationships was with her father, Jeff, who lovingly nicknamed her “Harold.” They shared a special bond, with many saying she had him wrapped around her finger. This close relationship was a source of strength and comfort for Tasha throughout her life.
Community and Faith
Tasha’s faith was an integral part of her life. From her baptism at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Chokio to her confirmation at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar, she maintained a strong connection to her faith community. Her faith guided her actions and decisions, providing a foundation of strength and compassion that she extended to everyone around her.
Tasha was also deeply involved in her community. Her outgoing nature and willingness to help others made her a beloved figure in Willmar and Grove City. She formed many lasting friendships and left a positive impact on those she encountered.
Memorial and Legacy
Natasha Mae Fester passed away on March 13, 2024, at the age of 33. Her Mass of Christian Burial was held on March 18th at the Church of St. Mary in Willmar, with visitation at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home. The funeral service was also livestreamed, allowing many who loved her to join in celebrating her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorials were preferred for the “Fester children,” ensuring that her legacy of love and care for her family continues.
Surviving Family and Loved Ones
Tasha’s passing left a void in the lives of her family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband, Matthew, and their children: Mason, Marshel, Maxton, and MaKinlee, all of Grove City. She is also survived by her parents, Jeff and Lisa Adkins of Atwater; her brother, Trenton (Jen) Adkins, and their children Quinn and Leighton; her father-in-law, Marion Fester of Belgrade; her mother-in-law, Jori Berzins of Spring Park; and her sisters-in-law: Stacy (Nick) Danielson and their children Gavin, Loretta, and Bode; and Abby (Andrew) Christensen and their children Aiden, Ashton, and Ayla. Tasha’s grandparents, Rosey Ehrp and James (Kathy) Adkins, also survive her, along with her special friend, Ali Hood.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents: Alfred and Lorraine Chase, Norm Hamner, and her step-mother-in-law, Cindy Fester.
A Life of Love and Compassion
Tasha’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and dedication. Her commitment to her family, her faith, and her profession left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her kind heart and willingness to help others made her a beloved figure in her community.
In her professional life, Tasha’s work as a nurse and later as a PMHNP at CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital was marked by her genuine care for her patients. She looked forward to going to work each day, knowing that she was making a difference in the lives of those she served.
Cherished Memories
Tasha’s family and friends have countless cherished memories of her. From her enthusiastic support at her children’s sporting events to her love for demo derbies and DIY projects, Tasha’s zest for life was evident in everything she did. Her special bond with her father, Jeff, was a source of joy and strength, and her ability to make friends wherever she went was a testament to her warm and welcoming nature.
Final Thoughts
As we remember Natasha Mae Fester, we celebrate a life well-lived. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew her. While her passing leaves a profound sense of loss, the memories of her kindness, her love for her family, and her unwavering commitment to her faith and profession provide comfort and strength.
Tasha’s life reminds us of the importance of living with love and compassion, cherishing our relationships, and making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those she touched during her too-brief time on earth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Natasha Mae Fester was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by her love for her family, her dedication to her profession, and her unwavering faith. She made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. As we honor her memory, we are reminded of the importance of living with love, compassion, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Tasha’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the profound difference one person can make in the lives of many.
