Nicholas James Dressely

Nicholas J. Dressely, age 46, of Hastings, passed away unexpectedly on April 23, 2026.

Nick was born on December 31, 1979, to James and Deborah (Gartner) Dressely. He grew up in St. Paul alongside his younger brother, Joe, and attended St. Francis–St. James United School and Cretin-Derham Hall. From an early age, Nick was known for his quick wit and playful spirit.

His love for his family was evident in the close bond they shared. He spoke with his dad every day, a reflection of their deep connection. Nick was always eager to head up north to lend a hand, but he equally cherished the simple, meaningful time they spent together, talking, visiting, and just being in each other’s company.

In his early 20s, Nick met Jessica, and together they began building a life. They welcomed their daughter, Carlie, in 2003, and their son, Anthony, in 2009, and their world quickly centered around their children. Nick and Jessica made their home in Hastings, where they raised their family, and were married in 2014. They enjoyed working together in their yard and looked forward each spring to checking the growth of the lilacs.

As the kids grew older, Nick remained a devoted father, always finding ways to connect with them, sharing coffee and time in nature with Carlie, and taking Tony on an annual fishing trip to Canada with his dad (Jim) and brother (Joe). He was incredibly proud of his children, celebrating Carlie as a soon-to-be University of Montana graduate and Anthony as a newly licensed driver. He also cherished family vacations to Hawaii and Florida.

Nick began his telecommunications career as a tower technician and quickly advanced through roles including foreman, construction manager, project manager, operations manager, market director, and regional director. These experiences gave him a deep understanding of wireless infrastructure at every level, making him an expert in his field. He truly loved his work and the people he worked with. Known for his honesty and integrity, he earned the respect of colleagues and became a trusted leader in the industry.

At every stage of his life, Nick loved fishing and hunting. He had many close friends and was a member of the Mid-Continent Gun Club in Welch, where he served as a range officer and earned numerous awards in tournament-style shooting events. He was also a Master Mason and Senior Warden at Dakota Masonic Lodge No. 7.

Above all, Nick loved his family. He was devoted to his wife and children and took great pride in being a husband and father. He never held anything back when it came to loving them, he was all in.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jessica; his children, Carlie (Jonah) Dressely-Johnson and Anthony Dressely; his parents, James and Deborah Dressely; his brother, Joe (Kelsey) Dressely; his nephews, Levi and Nikolai; his sister-in-law, JoLynn (Briggs) Trilk-Connelle, and nieces, Sienna and Bella; his brother-in-law, Adam Neumann, and nephew, John; his grandmother, Genevieve Gartner; his beloved cat, Loki; and many other family members and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Florence Dressely, and Robert Gartner; and his mother-in-law, Beth Trilk.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Nick’s memory will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and continuing until the time of the service. A light reception will follow.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.