Dorothy A. Nielsen

Dorothy A. Nielsen, age 79, of Morgan, MN, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024, at Garnette Gardens in Redwood Falls. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 16, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Morgan, with burial to follow in the St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery. Lunch will be served. A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 15 at the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Morgan. The visitation will continue on Friday 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

The Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Services of Morgan and Redwood Falls are in charge of the arrangements. E-mail condolences may be sent via www.nelson-hillestad.com.

Dorothy's journey began on January 18, 1945, in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, where she was born to her parents Norbert and Evelyn (Anderson) Wolter. Throughout her life, education played a central role. She attended elementary school in Morgan and graduated high school in Renville in 1963. Dorothy's commitment to learning led her to Southwest State College, where she graduated in 1987.

In April 1965, Dorothy married the love of her life, James Nielsen. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with love and dedication. 

Dorothy's impact extended beyond the classroom as she embarked on a fulfilling career as a teacher at Cedar Mountain School in Morgan for over 23 years before retiring in 2010. Her dedication to nurturing young minds left an indelible mark on generations of students. Dorothy was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Morgan. She was active in church by teaching Sunday School, Luther League Advisor and worked to coordinate music. She was also a member of the Chatter Club.

Dorothy is survived by her beloved husband James Nielsen of Morgan, MN; children Kimberly (Terry) Franks of Rochester, MN, Scott (Cendee) Nielsen of Phoenix, AZ, Tamra (Derek) Appelman of Chula Vista, CA, and Mitchell Nielsen of Morgan, MN; along with 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Among those mourning her loss are her sisters, Joan (Curt) Hartzell of Windsor, CO, Ruth (David) Dunwell of Downers Grove IL., Carol (Gary) Newman of Willmar, MN., Betty (Tim) Rehnberg of Coeur d'Alene, ID., Sharon (Kim) Latterell of Sumner WA., Marilyn (Dean) Woodford of Annandale MN.; brother Don Wolter of Webster SD., Susan (Curt) Raske of Leander TX.; and her many dear family, friends and former colleagues. Dorothy is preceded in death by her brother, Myron Wolter, but leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

In addition to her professional achievements as an educator and her dedication to her family, Dorothy found immense joy in spending time with family and friends. Her warmth and kindness touched all who crossed her path. 

In loving memory of our dear Wife, Mom, and Grandma, whose strength, grace, and love of the lord remain an everlasting inspiration. We are forever grateful for the time shared together. Her laughter and love brightened all of our lives.

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