FT. PIERRE, SD – Michelle Marie Allison, age 55, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, May 23, 2025. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 29th at 11:00 am at Isburg Funeral Chapel in Pierre. Visitation with family will be one hour prior.

Michelle was born on June 24, 1969, in Tyndall, South Dakota, to Lee and Nancy Harris. At the age of five, her family moved to Pierre, where she attended school and spent her formative years. After graduating high school, Michelle moved to Minneapolis to pursue further education. She completed training to become both a travel agent and a legal secretary—two roles that reflected her curiosity about the world and her sharp attention to detail.

On August 17, 1996 she married Matt Allison, and together they raised two children, Derek and Amanda, whom she loved dearly. Michelle later returned to Pierre, where she worked in several roles, including at Running’s and, more recently, at the Grey Goose, where she was employed at the time of her passing.

Michelle’s greatest joy came from being a mother and especially a grandmother. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and the love they shared was mutual and deep.

She is survived by her son, Derek Allison, and his domestic partner Erica Simpson, along with their children, Connor, Brooke, and Ava; her daughter, Amanda Allison and her partner Braden Koopmeiners and their children, Alexander and Adalaide. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph (Jami) Harris; her niece Cheyenne (Cameron) Thweatt; her mother, Nancy, and stepfather, Jerry Gabert; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles & cousins and good friend Bob Gunderson.

Michelle was preceded in death by her father, Lee Harris; her grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

Michelle will be remembered for her warm spirit, her devotion to family, and the love she gave so freely to those closest to her. She will be deeply missed.

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