Norma Winnifred Nelson

Norma Winnifred Nelson, age 95, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025. She was born on June 25, 1930, in River Falls, Wisconsin, the fifth of eight children to Walter and Nettie (Anderson) Swenson.

Norma grew up surrounded by love on her family's farm outside River Falls. She often shared fond memories of her childhood-simple joys, hard work, and the deep bonds of family that shaped her character. Her education began at the one-room Gertrude School, built on land her father donated. After finishing eighth grade there, she attended River Falls High School, where her lifelong love of learning blossomed. Norma later earned her Bachelor's degree in Education with a minor in Art from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Teaching was more than a profession to Norma-it was her calling. She inspired generations of young students, beginning her career in three one-room schoolhouses, including the same one she had attended as a girl. Later, she taught second grade, nurturing young minds with patience, creativity, and kindness.

In the early 1950s, Norma set out for adventure, moving to California with friends. There she met and married Frank Jones. They had one son, Bradley Philip. They were later divorced.

In 1963, Norma married Frederick Charles Snyder of Hastings, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Mary Beth and Todd Frederick. Norma embraced motherhood wholeheartedly, stepping away from teaching to raise her family. She was active in her community, loved bowling, and enjoyed many lively bridge games with friends. Fred shared her appreciation for education and earned both a Master's and a Specialist Degree in Education. Their years together took them to many homes and states before tragedy struck in 1974 when Fred was killed in an automobile accident.

Determined to keep her family strong, Norma later met Lloyd Nelson. They married on May 4, 1975, beginning a new chapter filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Their blended family of eight children became the heart of their lives. They traveled widely across the United States and abroad, cherishing time together. One of their most memorable adventures was a three-and-a-half-week trip through Norway, Sweden, and Finland with their daughter Mary-a journey they lovingly called "The Trip of a Lifetime."

Norma's faith was the cornerstone of her life. As an ordained deaconess in the United Church of God, she served her congregation with devotion, humility, and warmth. She read the Bible daily and found great joy in biographies and the beauty of flowers. Her floral arrangements, often made from blooms in her own yard, graced many church services.

Norma's life was a testament to love-love of God, family, learning, and the simple, beautiful moments that make a life full. She will be remembered for her steady kindness, her faith-filled heart, and her strength.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow at noon.

Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to care for the Snyder family.