Esther Laurene Nelson

Esther Laurene Nelson, 94 of Sebeka, MN, died Saturday, September 27, 2014 at the home of her daughter in Chisago City, MN surrounded by her loved ones. Esther was born to John and Anna (Madsen) Nielsen on November 29, 1919, in Nimrod, MN. Her long and happy life seems remarkable considering she was born weighing only two pounds at the start of a harsh winter. Esther attended country school through eighth grade. She worked as a waitress in Nimrod and Elbow Lake. Esther was also employed by the toy factory that had a brief history in Nimrod. She worked in a defense plant in Fargo during WWII. Esther was united in marriage to Russell Nelson on February 14, 1946 in Moorhead, MN. One daughter was born to this union. Russell and Esther farmed in Rockwood Township, Wadena County, MN, for approximately forty years. Upon retirement, they moved into the town of Sebeka where Esther lived independently into her 94th year. The past nine months she lived with her daughter. Esther was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was an avid gardener and reader. She also enjoyed caring for animals. Esther had a gift as a natural story teller with a good sense of humor. Her recorded memories remain as a treasure for generations to come. Esther is survived by her daughter, Brenda Nelson, of Chisago City, MN; granddaughter, Jordan Nelson, son-in-law Jon Lusk, and great granddaughter Willa Nelson Lusk of Chisago City, MN; grandson Jed Nelson; granddaughter Kellyn Nelson; granddaughter Seren Nelson; and numerous nieces and nephews. Esther was preceded in death by her husband Russell on February 10, 2000, parents, twin sister Rosie [stillborn], brothers Harry, Holger, Bill, and Karl, sisters Helen Kohle and Ann Komula, and two nephews. Private Service.