Shirley Nelson

Shirley E. Nelson age 91 of Detroit Lakes, MN died February 14, 2021 at Ecumen Emanuel Memory Care. She is now with the loves of her life, her Savior and her husband.

Shirley Elizabeth Nelson was born January 14, 1930 in Frazee, MN to Leroy and Lillian (Collins) King. In 1948 she was united in marriage to Dean L. Nelson of Rochert MN. In 1951 they moved into Detroit Lakes.

Shirley was very active in her church throughout her life which included the girls missionette program, various ladies groups and committees. Most recently her involvement was with the High Millage program and ladies quilting group at the Community Alliance Church.

Beginning 1975 she worked in the kitchen at Rossman elementary school for approximately 20 years.

Shirley enjoyed camping, summer fishing, and ice fishing; as well as spending many years volunteering at Rollag and Dalton with her husband Dean. She was self-taught in many things; sewing, embroidery, painting, rosemaling, even successfully tackling the computer, when many her age wouldn’t touch one. And for many most important, her donut making.

She is survived by her two daughters, Judy (Mike) Graff, of W. Fargo, ND; and Jeanne (Malcolm) Nason, of North Pole, AK; one son, Rick (Nancy) Nelson, of Detroit Lakes, MN; nine grandchildren, Jason, Tracey, Dan, Beth, Christy, Heather, Mike, Michelle, and Tim; twenty five great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; One sister Virginia Bitterman, Billings Mt. and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Nelson of 69 years; one daughter, Joyce Anderson; one son, Gary Nelson; her parents; 2 sisters; 9 brothers.