Obituary for JoAnn Nielsen

JoAnn Gayle Nielsen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024, at the age of 85 in Rogers, MN with Mark and Cindy by her side.

After graduating from Ada High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (1961) from the University of Minnesota. She was married to her devoted husband, Dick Nielsen on August 31, 1962, living most of their married life in Albert Lea, MN. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. JoAnn was a dedicated RN, known for her compassion and commitment to helping others. Her caring nature extended beyond her profession, touching the lives of everyone she met. Her group of nursing friends were very special to her. They all enjoyed travelling together and spending time together reminiscing.

She was a lifelong fan of Gopher athletics, especially basketball. She had a love for reading that filled her days with joy and knowledge. She would often be reading multiple books at a time. JoAnn could often be found enjoying a game of bingo, a pastime that brought her great pleasure and allowed her to connect with friends and community. Shopping was another of JoAnn’s favorite activities, especially jackets from Chicos and household decor. She, along with Dick, had an extra special place in their hearts for their children and grandchildren. Always interested in what they were doing and attending all events if possible. She also enjoyed listening to all genres of music with a special liking for Tim McGraw. JoAnn’s warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever. When asked how she wanted to be remembered, her response was, “That I was a good mother, grandmother and friend!”

She is preceded in death by her husband Dick; parents Orel Vigen and Tenny Vigen; mother-in-law and father-in-law Richard and Bernice Nielsen; son-in-law, Thomas Falk; and sister-in-law Gin Vigen. She is survived by her children, son Mark (Meri) Nielsen, and their children Haley (Joe) Elling and Jake Nielsen; daughter Cindy Falk (Mike Allen) and her children Brady (Sierra) Falk and Stephi (Nic) Dorosh; brother Jack Vigen; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Maren (Howard) Dahl and nieces and nephews. Grand Puppies: Lucy, Frankie, Daisy, Nelly, Gnash, Rosie, Pico, Mabel, Reggie (the lone cat) and Aspen (the lone horse).

There will be a Celebration of Life Service at Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers, MN on Thursday, September 12th, 2024. Visitation will start at 10:00 a.m. with a service following at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea, MN or Word of Peace Lutheran Church of Rogers, MN.