Darlene Nelson

DARLENE PHYLLIS NELSON, age 88, of Madison Lake, passed away peacefully, following a short battle with cancer, on April 8, 2022, at her home.

Born on February 10, 1934, in Pine City, Minnesota to Alfon and Sarah (Buckley) Anderson. She attended Pine City Public School, where she graduated with the class of 1952. Darlene was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Roger Nelson on January 9, 1954, and together they raised four children. Following Rogers honorable discharge from the United States Army, they moved to Minneapolis until 1973, when they moved to Rochester. Darlene worked several jobs throughout her life but most notable for Greenway Coop in Rochester. Later in life Darlene and Roger moved to Madison Lake where they enjoyed their retirement years. Together they shared 63 years of marriage before Roger passed away on February 17, 2017.

Darlene enjoyed knitting, bird watching, cooking, and baking. When her grandchildren would visit, she always made sure to prepare their favorite meal. In her younger years she played the accordion for a polka band and later in life she would regularly watch Molly B’s Polka Party. Above all else her family meant the world to Darlene. She cherished all the time she was able to spend with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Darlene was a witty, sweet, and kind woman who will be remembered fondly for the love she shared with her family throughout her life. She will be dearly missed.

Darlene is survived by her children: Terry (Sherri) of Inver Grove Heights, Brian (Carla) of Rochester, Michelle (Ira) Beckman of Jordan, and Sharla (Thad) Zellmer of Madison Lake; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters: Polly (Jack) Miller of California, and Barb Goulding of California; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Darryl Anderson; and sister in infancy, Diane Anderson.

Gathering of Family and Friends will be from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at the Janesville Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Pine City.

Memorials are preferred to St. Croix Hospice or the Madison Lake Volunteer Fire Department.