Chelsea Elizabeth McNair

Chelsea Elizabeth McNair

July 13, 1977 – April 13, 2025

Chelsea Elizabeth McNair, 47, of Fargo, ND, passed away on April 13, 2025, after a long battle with chronic illness. Her final days were marked by gentleness, dignity, and the presence of loved ones.

Born to Sandy (Gunkelman) Hertel and Mike McNair on July 13, 1977, Chelsea was a tender-hearted soul whose compassion ran deep. She loved animals, babies, elderly folks, music and poetry. Her laugh was one of the best, and her gift of bringing comfort to others unmatched.

Nursing was a natural fit for Chels, and she accomplished this through attending North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton. Those who were lucky enough to be in her care knew the ease she embodied while performing her role as an LPN.

Her most treasured role was that of being a mom to her beautiful children, Austin and Emme Schmidt. She was so proud of them.

In addition to her children, Chelsea is survived by her sister, Jessica (Jason) Just of Lakeville, MN; nephews, Sam and Max Just, as well as step-parents and step-siblings; many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her mom, Sandy Hertel and her dad, Mike McNair.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In memory of Chelsea, donations may be made to the Sanford Hospice House in Fargo. The team of compassionate caregivers expertly fulfilled Chelsea’s final wish for finding peace.