Laura Beth Nelson

Laura Beth Nelson, 37, Fargo, ND, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, at Sanford on Broadway in Fargo.

Laura was born on August 15, 1987, in Fargo, to James Lynn Nelson and Rebecca Mjolsness Nelson. She was born with a rare disorder called Rett Syndrome. Because of this, Laura required 24-hour care. She attended Fargo Public Schools and graduated from Fargo North High School in 2008.

Respite caregivers assisted Laura from a young age and when she moved into her own apartment, she received round-the-clock care from the wonderful team at Easter Seals.

Laura was a sweet soul, loved by everyone she met. Although she was unable to speak, her eyes would light up and speak for her. While her eyes shone brightly when she was happy, she was also known to give her mom a few loving eye rolls. Laura was always happy and full of life. Sometimes, you could even hear her giggling to herself in the middle of the night, as happy as can be.

She grew up surrounded by cats and dogs. Laura loved music, bright lights, and Raggedy Ann dolls. One of her special Raggedy Ann dolls was even there to comfort her in her final moments.

Laura was a fighter. Whenever she was sick, she fought hard to get strong and healthy. She had unwavering support from her devoted care team at Easter Seals, who became like a second family to her.

Laura was deeply loved by her younger sister, Amber, who always looked out for Laura as though she were the older sibling. For nearly 22 years, Laura was also part of another loving family, Art & Tina Kraft with whom she spent two weekends each month. One of the brothers, Grant, even walked with her during her high school graduation ceremony.

Laura is survived by her loving family: mother, Rebecca Mjolsness Nelson; sister, Amber Nelson; aunts and uncles, Jerry and Jean Mjolsness, JoLyn and Ray Johnson, Doug and Karleen Mjolsness, Karen and Mike Steiner, Greg and Kari Nelson (also Laura’s godparents), Shirleen Miller and Lorie and Mark Anderson. She is also survived by many cousins and all her special friends and caregivers from Easter Seals.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Lynn Nelson; grandparents, Bob and Louise Nelson, Alton Mjolsness and Jorgee Mjolsness; aunt, Jeni Meuwissen and special friend, Kelly Melquist.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life Service beginning at 6:00 PM, at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN. A private family burial will take place at Concordia Cemetery, rural Glyndon, MN.