Kay Nelson Obituary
Kay Diane Nelson, age 81, died at home unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Kay led a full, rich life filled with friendships, learning and travel. Her death was preceded by her former husband, Dale Nelson, who passed in 2004.
Kay was born in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota, on September 17, 1943, daughter of the late Eber and Gladys Berquist. After graduating from Parkers Prairie High School, she and Dale moved to Minneapolis and had two children, Christopher and Leslie. The couple joined Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, where she was an active member of the choir for several decades. Kay was an extremely accomplished vocalist. In addition to singing in her church choir, she studied at the MacPhail Center for Music and performed for many years with the Bach Society of Minnesota.
Kay was an avid reader, lifelong learner, and adventurous traveler. After raising her children she returned to school, earning an AA from Normandale Community College and a BA in Liberal Arts from Minnesota State University. She toured dozens of countries and made friends from all over the world. She maintained her energy by participating in water aerobics. Also, she was active in the community. She volunteered with many organizations over the years, some including Read-a-story Theater and Citizens Climate Lobby. Through these experiences, she developed many deep and long-lasting friendships.
She is survived by children: Christopher Nelson-San Luis Obispo, CA; Leslie (James) Anderson-Chaska, MN. Grandchildren: James Nelson, Graham Nelson; Anthony (Rachel) Gylling. Great Grandchild: Tristyn Spencer.
Visitation, at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN,
is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00AM with the memorial service at 11:00AM.
Family will receive friends at a reception and luncheon at the church following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to a local PBS station or the Animal Humane Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Bonnie Anderson
May 10, 2025
Fondly remembered from many years in the Sanctuary Choir. I loved hearing about Kay's travels!
Bonnie Anderson
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Mary Sievers
May 7, 2025
Kay was a kind, caring and talented gal. We enjoyed being with her in our water aerobics class. She loved to get together with others even though she had a very busy schedule with her volunteer activities and church events. We will miss her smile and kindness. Kay, is in the choir in heaven singing right now.
Mary Sievers
Jean Lorbiecki Ingalls (formerly Nelson)
May 7, 2025
I was so sorry to hear of Kay's passing. She was such an adventurous, kind, and talented woman. I always admired her courage in traveling to so many interesting international locations. She was such a deeply caring person, and was always interested in, and supported, my daughter's and myself. My sympathies go out to Leslie and Chris, and her entire family.
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4343 Nicollet Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN 55409
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