Shirley M. Nelson

Shirley M. Nelson (Meyer), age 100, of Cambridge, MN., passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024 surrounded by her family at her home in Cambridge.

Shirley was born on February 16, 1924 to Oliver and Vera Meyer in Sibley County, MN.  She graduated from Norwood/Young America High School in 1942.  She enlisted in the US Coast Guard and was stationed in Washington DC.  She marched behind FDR’s caisson at his funeral in 1945.

After the war, she moved to California with a friend and found work as a watch repair person.  Longing for her family, she moved back to Minnesota. There, she met her husband Wyman.  They were married on June 18, 1949 in Mora, MN.  They settled in Grandy, MN welcoming 3 girls into their fold; Joan, Jean and Janet.

After Wyman’s passing in 1988, Shirley moved to Cambridge, MN, living there until her passing.

Shirley loved to travel the world with friends and new acquaintances on guided tours.  She also loved to sew and was and accomplished quilter, donating her quilts to charity auctions.  On her seventieth birthday she started bowling with her daughter Janet and continued until she was 90.  Shirley participated in state and national bowling tournaments.

She was a dedicated volunteer at The Little Farm in Cambridge for over 20 years. Her tireless devotion could be counted on when ever the need arose.  Shirley especially enjoyed going to “the lake” for a weeks’ vacation with her family, playing games and just “catching up” with them.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband Wyman, brothers Donald, Dale and Ray; sisters Dorothy, Kathleen “Kay’ and Mary.

She is survived by her daughters; Joan (Garland) Finch, Jean (Tom) Swanson and Janet (Randy) Sward; 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, special friends School Sisters of Notre Dame; Sisters Magaret and Francette and other relatives and friends.

Memorial Service 11AM, Monday, April 29, 2024 at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home.  Visitation one hour prior to the service.  Interment St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Mora.

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