Nancy Carlsen

1947 - 2017

Nancy Carlsen

Nancy Carlsen was born on January 8, 1947, in Vermillion, SD, to Ernie and Bonnie (Brammer) Carlsen. On Tuesday, July 25, 2017, she embarked on new adventures, passing peacefully "at home" in Vermillion, surrounded by people who loved her. We are so very sad to see her go - she will be deeply missed by so many - and we are happy to have known her as she passed us by.

She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, other-mother, cousin, and friend. Nancy is survived by her father, Ernest G. Carlsen of Sioux Falls; her sister, Cindy Kirkeby of Vermillion; her brother, Chris (Sandra) Carlsen of Sioux Falls; her nephew, Daniel (Renata) Kirkeby and their sons, Miro and Thales, soon of New York City; her nephew, Jensen (Amy) Carlsen and their sons, Judah and Jedidiah of Houston; her nephew, Luke Carlsen of Los Angeles; her long-time friend and housemate Nancy Losacker; "her kids," including Jennifer Sky Alsgaard and Molly Vagle; her cousins and extended family; and her many close associates and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Bonnie, in 2002.

Nancy was a most unique individual- graceful, serene, passionate, well-meaning- a very private person with a big heart and a great love of community. She was known for her unfaltering kindness and generosity- always willing to lend a hand or share her abilities to help make the world a better place. She was a woman with many interests throughout her life- as counselor, educator, historian, title examiner, author, artist, nature lover, meticulous cartographer, and environmental/social activist.

She pursued her diverse interests with a dynamic combination of mystic and healer, creator, teacher, collaborator - always with a strong scientific bent- ever wondering, researching, compiling, documenting, creating, and sharing- a steadfast member of a number of diverse communities - a devoted Vermillionaire- a true friend.

Information about Nancy's "Celebration of Life" and her "Personal History" are available at www.koberfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Spirit Mound Cemetery c/o Spirit Mound Trust, or to the SD State Archeological Society.