Joyce Nielsen

Joyce Marie Nielsen, age 78, of Gordon Nebraska, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 3, 2025. She passed away unexpectantly with her husband, Gary Nielsen, at her side in her home.

Joyce was born on July 17, 1947, in Gordon, Nebraska to Henry and Gladys Beardt. She grew up on their family farm west of Martin, South Dakota where she also graduated from high school. After graduation, she was employed at Bennet County Hospital. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially attending dances at Merriman, Nebraska. This is where she met her future husband, Gary Nielsen.

Gary and Joyce were married on June 14, 1975. She jumped right into ranch life, as they resided on a part of the Nielsen ranch outside of Valentine, Nebraska. This included adventures such as warming up newborn calves in the house, pulling quills out of the dog on the kitchen table, and holding down a cow to help pull a calf. She loved the wide-open spaces and watching the antics of all the animals around her.

Her greatest pride and joy were her family. Joyce and Gary moved to Gordon, Nebraska in 1980 where they raised four children, Sonya, Chad, Angela, and Matthew. Joyce was a dedicated mother and ranch wife. She cherished family time. Game times were always special with her contagious laughter and unmistakable joy. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church, sang in the church choir, and served on the church’s prayer chain.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Gladys Beardt and her younger brother Johnny Beardt.

Those she leaves to mourn her, are her husband Gary of 50 years, daughter Sonya (Tim) Tysdal of Newcastle, Wyoming, son Chad of Grand Island, Nebraska, daughter Angela (Keith) Kurz of Grand Island, Nebraska, and son Matthew (Angelique) Nielsen of Osceola, Nebraska, two grandsons, and numerous family and friends.