Rose Nelson

Rose Marie Nelson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 27, 1943, in Pettibone, North Dakota, Rose was the daughter of Henry and Pauline (Kirschman) Geist, who instilled in her the values of kindness and hard work that would define her life.
Rose lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to others. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dwain Nelson, who passed away in 1998, as well as her parents and several siblings, including Donny, Merlyn, Alvin, Lorraine, and Shirley, her nephew Steven, and her fur babies, Chance and Sheba. Those who knew Rose could always find her smiling, even in the face of adversity. She had an infectious laugh and a warm heart that made everyone around her feel special.
Rose's journey in life led her from the small towns of Pettibone and Tappen, ND, to Fargo, ND, where she built a life filled with rich experiences. In 1967, she married Myron Hofstad; their union was brief. While working at the Skyline Cafe at Hector Airport, she met Dwain. They were married on August 20, 1980, until his passing in 1998.
Throughout her professional career, Rose wore many hats. She worked at the Black Angus restaurant for many years, where she built lasting friendships. She worked at the Skyline Cafe for a short time before starting the job she loved. From cocktail waitress and food server to Bar
Manager at the Fargo Country Club for 27 years, each job showcased her incredible work ethic and dedication. Even after retirement, Rose remained active, working as a product demonstrator at Costco in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, until 2019.
Rose was not just defined by her career but also by her love for family and her many hobbies. A gifted cook and baker, she loved experimenting with new recipes, always eager to share her culinary creations with those she loved. Gardening was another of her passions, and her home was filled with vibrant plants and flowers that bloomed under her expert care. Rose cherished the time spent playing bingo with her brother Ken and sister-in-law Linda, but her greatest joy came from family gatherings, whether it was dining out in Fargo with her son Kevin and his family or making memories with her daughter Paula and her family in Anoka.
Rose is survived by her two children, Paula Bauhof (fiancé Russ) and Kevin (Mindy) Hofstad; four grandchildren, Cody Moen, Nicole Moen, Chase Moen, and Whitney (Brandon) Delorme; and three great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Emma, and Peyton. She leaves behind her sisters, Delores (late husband Darrel) Stroh and Betty (late husband Ralph) Schatz, and her brother, Ken (Linda) Geist, along with numerous nephews and nieces who will forever remember her nurturing spirit.
In her final days, Rose showed her innate ability to put others first, ensuring everyone around her felt comfortable and loved. Even during her struggles with Alzheimer's and Dementia, she radiated positivity and grace, particularly appreciating the care she received from the wonderful staff at Sanford Medical Center, including a special bond with a caregiver she affectionately called "Missy Martini." The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and aides on 5C for treating Rose with the utmost respect and kindness, allowing her to maintain her spirit and dignity.
Mom, you will forever be remembered for your unconditional love, your nurturing heart, and your ability to light up the lives of those around you. Mom, you leave behind a family woven together by the love you cultivated in your lifetime, and your spirit will continue to inspire all those you touched. Rest in peace, dear Mom; you will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. We love you.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Moorhead, MN. All who knew and loved her are invited to honor her remarkable legacy.
West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center
westfuneralhome.com
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