Teresa "Tessa May" Kiemele

Teresa Marie “Tessa May” Kiemele (née Risser), of Bismarck, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on July 24, 1958, in Valley City, North Dakota, Teresa lived a life marked by resilience, devotion, and unwavering love for her family.

Teresa was the cherished daughter of Harold Jr. and Delores Risser, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up surrounded by a large and loving family and remained close to her siblings throughout her life. She is survived by her six brothers and sisters: Steven, Gerene, Ellie, Dawn, Brian, and Chris.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Teresa leaves behind her beloved children: her son, Nathan Risser, and his wife, Kelley; and her daughter, Nikki Blowers, and her husband, Aaron. Her grandchildren, Isaiah, Blake, Hunter, and Izabella, were the light of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them and found immense joy in taking them out for ice cream or simply being present at any family gathering.

Teresa’s commitment to sobriety was a defining part of her journey. With 36 years of sobriety, she was deeply devoted to her recovery community and found strength and purpose in attending meetings that supported not only herself but others walking similar paths. Her dedication served as an inspiration to many.

She had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, like going for drives through the countryside or spending time with those she loved most. Teresa never missed an opportunity to be there for her family; whether it was a celebration or a quiet moment of support, she showed up with patience and love.

Those who knew Teresa remember her as caring, loving, patient, and truly one of a kind. Her presence brought comfort and warmth to everyone around her.

May Teresa’s memory bring peace to those who knew and loved her.

Please join us in a Celebration of Life for Teresa at the Ramada, located at 1400 E. Interchange Ave. in Bismarck, ND, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Saturday, August 30, 2025. We will be having food and celebrating her life! Please wear Navy blue as that is what Mom wanted.