Orlene Bernice Woodside

Orlene Berniece (Thompson) Woodside, 87, died on May 31st, 2024, at Nelson Gables Living Center in Alexandria, Minnesota. Orlene was born on Sept. 24, 1936, on the family farm outside of Ellendale, Minnesota, to Bernice (Ohnstad) and Orlando Thompson. She graduated from Ellendale High School and the Naeve Hospital School of Nursing.

Orlene married Jack Woodside on May 23rd, 1959, at First Lutheran Church in Ellendale, Minnesota.   They lived most of their life in Albert Lea, Minnesota, having only recently moved to an assisted living facility in Alexandria, Minnesota.

Orlene lived a life of compassion and giving. Upon graduating from the Naeve Hospital School of Nursing, she proceeded to spend the ensuing 42 years in the profession.  A beloved nurse in the community, Orlene was well-known for her gentle, caring nature and greeted each patient with a welcoming and comforting smile.  Rarely could the family experience a restaurant meal without someone approaching her to discuss their recent medical procedure.

Faith and family were the cornerstones of Orlene’s being. For her entire life, she attended a “First Lutheran Church,” whether that be in Ellendale or Albert Lea.  She volunteered for years at the Church, and on days when she could not attend services in-person, she would watch them on Peace & Power. Family were blessed by her caring and empathetic spirit.  She doted on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Few would leave the house without being served a malted milk or cookies, and they usually were slipped a folded bill of money for good measure. Scratches and bumps and bruises were treated with uncompromising care and love.  

Orlene is survived by her children Paul (Roberta) Woodside, Ann (Gene) Arnold, Dan Woodside; five grandchildren Ben (Amanda) Woodside, Bryn (Quinn) Irey, Allison (Ryan) Kuhlman, Brooke Arnold, Luke Arnold; six great-grandchildren Genevieve Woodside, Declan Woodside, Rogen Kuhlman, Riggs Kuhlman, Royce Arnold, Isla Irey.

Orlene was preceded in death by her husband; parents; sister Louise Berg and her husband Allan; and brothers-in-law Duane Johnson and Ron Woodside.

The family would like to extend their thanks to Sylvia Ortez and Nelson Gables Assisted Living Facility in Alexandria, Minnesota, for their unwavering care and support of both Orlene and Jack over the past two years.

As family and friends gather to remember Orlene, services will be held at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services on June 4th, 2024. The day will begin with the family accepting visitors from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM. A graveside service for Orlene and Jack will then take place at First Lutheran Cemetery in Ellendale at 1:30 PM following services.