Marjorie Elaine Nelson

Marjorie was born on November 3, 1935, to Peter and Ethel Mikkelsen. Affectionately known as “little Margie,” she was the fourth of eight children and grew up on a farm in Jacksonville, Iowa.

She attended high school in Elkhorn, Iowa. After graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, Bob Andersen, and they settled in Atlantic, Iowa, where they raised their family of three sons and one daughter. Most of those years were spent on the Walnut Grove Research Farm south of Atlantic, where Bob served as farm manager.

Life changed dramatically in December 1975 when Marg, her husband, and three of their younger children were involved in a devastating car accident. Bob was killed instantly, and Marg and the children were hospitalized. Her youngest son, Bobby, passed away from injuries sustained in the accident two and a half years later after remaining in a coma. In 1978, she relocated with her daughter to Colorado, where she began rebuilding her life as a single mother, pressing on with courage and faith.

In 1993, Marg married Dale Nelson of Elkhorn, Iowa. They shared 23 years of marriage, spending time both in Loveland and Elkhorn and enjoying a seasonal home in Mesa, Arizona.

Marg spent her later years in Loveland and Windsor, Colorado, living near some of her children and their families. She loved her family deeply and was immensely proud of each one. She became the matriarch of a growing family of 31. Known affectionately as “Momo,” she was a treasured presence to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They were her greatest treasure.

Marg was a faithful friend to many. She remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions, sending countless cards over the years. She prepared meals for those who were sick or grieving and instilled that same care and thoughtfulness in her children.

Above all, Marg loved Jesus. Through seasons of deep loss and hardship, she held fast to Him and His promises, choosing faith over bitterness. Her life was marked by love, resilience, and enduring faith. She prioritized the values that build strong families and lasting legacies. She will be deeply missed.

Marg is survived by her children: Kirby Andersen (Gail) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Dwight Andersen (Marcia) of Loveland, Colorado; and Monica Hemberger (Mike) of Windsor, Colorado; her grandchildren: Josh Andersen (Becka), Jared Andersen (Allison), Jesse Andersen (Summer), Rachel Andersen, Rebekah Andersen, Tiffany Wallace (Ryan), Samantha Andersen, Kelsey Bukowski (Nick), and Logan Hemberger; her great-grandchildren: Nora, Liam, Lola, Judah, Nelly, Remy, Maya, Capri, Ava, Elinor, and Henry; her brothers: Virgil Mikkelsen of Atlantic, Iowa; Merlin Mikkelsen (Sonya) of Atlantic, Iowa; Roger Mikkelsen (Lavonne) of Elkhorn, Iowa; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Andersen; her husband, Dale Nelson; her son, Bobby Andersen; her parents, Peter and Ethel Mikkelsen; and her siblings, Marvin Mikkelsen, Leland Mikkelsen, Joyce Nelson, and Connie Maher.

Marg’s family wish to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of Columbine Commons and Canyon Hospice. Their loving service provided great comfort and Marg loved every caregiver.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 11:00am at Allnutt Funeral Service, Macy Chapel in Greeley, Colorado with a luncheon following the service. Final interment will take place in Atlantic, Iowa.