Nils Stockfleth Magelsen Oldberg passed away on September 24, 2022 at the age of 99 years in Blair, Nebraska. Services will be held Saturday, October 8, 2022 at PassageWay Church in Blair, NE with family greeting friends from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and services beginning at 2:00 PM. Services will be live streamed by PassageWay Church. Burial will be held in the Center Ridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery north of Red Oak, Iowa at 10 AM on October 9. Memorials may be directed to the Evangelical Free Church of America "Bibles for Congo"
Nils was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 14, 1923 to John Efraim and Ingrid (Magelssen) Oldberg. He graduated from Henry C. Kumpf Elementary School and Paseo High School, both in Kansas City, Missouri. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was about 5 years old and was baptized when he was 9 years old at the Michigan Avenue Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO.
He served a carpenter apprenticeship under his father and was a member of Carpenter's Union no. 71 in Kansas City, MO. He served three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine Guavina, SS 362 during WWII. Nils received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Missouri in 1950. He was a member of the University of Missouri chapter of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship during his college years and was the president of the IVCP for two years. He married Laura Lucille Shields on June 8, 1951. He and Laura became missionaries, serving with the Evangelical Free Church of America from 1951 – 1990. This included one year of studies at Trinity Bible College and Seminary, followed by another year of studies in Belgium to learn French and then to complete the " Colonial Course" required by the Belgian government for teaching in the Belgium Congo. They arrived in Congo on October 1,1953 to begin their teaching ministry.
Nils also earned a Master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 1966. He was preparing to teach and be the principal of a new Secondary School started by the Free Church mission in Congo. Nils and Laura served in two different secondary schools in Congo until 1973. Since Nils' position in Congo, as principal of the teacher training high school, was being filled by a Congo university graduate, and it appeared that their ministry in Congo was ending, they were asked by the Mission to open a new field in Belgium and do church planting.
This required that he go to seminary for two years, earning a Master's degree in Missions and Evangelism. He was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in September 1977, and in November the couple went to Belgium to begin the work. After starting two churches in the greater Brussels area, they retired in 1990. Nils then served the mission as coordinator of Missionary Construction Teams, recruiting and sending teams to do construction work in many countries where the Mission was involved. He accompanied several of these teams and worked alongside them. In 1996 he retired from the work.
He is survived by, Laura Oldberg, his wife of 71 years, his children; Rachel Ingrid & Nathan Bliss of Rockford, IL; David Loren & Karin Oldberg of Blair, NE; Paul Jonathan & Patti Oldberg of Missouri Valley, IA. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and their spouses, and by 28 great grandchildren.
∼
By his son David Oldberg, shared on FaceBook
Today Dad died. (9/24/22)
My mind jumps to many things. His expertise as a wood-worker, his joy in song (even his hillbilly music) his training us in hunting values, and husbanding, and chemistry, and farming, and in God's Word, in mechanics and carpentry, in literature and music and art … and so much more.
His passing won't be felt by world powers. It won't have significant influence on the course of history. In fact he will be remembered by few of those he has worked with, and will be mourned by few in his community. His problem is that he outlived most of those he worked with, and in the years he lived here he ministered especially to the elderly… many of whom have predeceased him.
Significantly, however, he and mom never felt that age was a boundary they could not cross, so we will find that among those whose lives have been touched by him were not only his peers among the senior citizenry, but the next generation, and the one after them… up until a few years ago they were mentors for young people going through church classes at the Lutheran church.
If you were to wonder what drove him to reach out to people I could tell you the answer. Some will despise the answer, but some will be relieved that there is an answer. This drive didn't proceed from his personal strength of character - although he certainly possessed that, nor did it come from him being a good man who wanted to do good in the world (although those were evidenced in his actions). He would want you to know that his power came from a conviction of The Holy God demanding perfect obedience of a human race who cannot attain that measure, but have to rely on The perfect sacrifice (Jesus death on the cross) to accede to godliness.
He would tell you that as a young child he put his faith in that sacrifice for his sins, and he never looked back. This faith carried him through the difficult teenage years, through the dangerous years as a submariner in the Second World War. through college studies and preparation to ministry in Africa. This faith carried him through seminary studies in a midlife career change to proclaiming the Good News of hope in Jesus in a foreign land with a foreign language… again. He would tell you that Jesus has faithfully carried him all the way through cultural reacquisition and retirement and aging and now dying. As we sang "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine" this evening he seemed to rally for just a few moments —-it seemed he was joining our song—- before giving up his body and leaving a tear in his eye … not sorrow at leaving, but JOY at entering the presence of God and seeing Jesus face to face. And he would want you to consider Jesus and find your hope, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nils was truly the most significant person in my walk with evangelism. He taught me that no one person lead someone to Jesus. Consider yourself fortunate if by example you cry someone to seek Jesus out. I was struggling with that years ago when I lived in Lake Elmo and he in his mild manner convinced me that by just leading a godly life that's what Jesus wanted us to do. He and Laura are such a great Christian example that I'm sure he's meeting a lot of people in heaven that are telling him how he was in part one of the reasons they're in heaven today. And I'm sure as soon as he got there our Lord and Savior said well done Good and faithful servant. Joy your time with our Savior, Nils, you will be missed here on earth.--Mary Mosbey FB
Well done, good and faithful servant. We so enjoyed both of your parents sitting behind us in church and encouraging us to keep doing it, no matter how squirrelly the kids got. You could see the heart of Jesus in them both. Praying for the entire Oldberg family at this time.--Lizz Abrahams, FB
Faithful servant of God ! He is in His presence!!!--Nubako Selenga, FB
Nubako Selenga merci mingi. Nous remercions notre Seigneur pour tout ce temps qu'il nous a donné avec notre père. (Il est mort à l'âge de 99 ans) Nous Le remercions également qu'il a daigné donner à nos parents l'honneur de Le servir au Congo et en Belgique. Soko nzela ezali koyebisa lingomba na Équateur nsango na kufa na tata ekosunga mama koyeba été baninga kuna bayebi yango. Mapamboli!--reply by David Oldberg.
(Nubako Selenga thank you so much. We thank our Lord for all the time he gave us with our father. (He died at the age of 99) We also thank Him for giving our parents the honor of serving Him in Congo and Belgium. If the road is to inform the community in Ecuador that my father is dead, it will help my mother to know that friends there are aware. Blessings!--translation from French)
Beautiful tribute! Thanks be to God for your Dad's deep faith convictions and how he in turn faithfully lived that out! God's peace and comfort in your loss here on earth—added treasure in heaven!--Dennis K Carlson, FB
We just saw him last week on a zoom Belgian reunion. Wow. We pray for comfort for all of you - and Laura Oldberg. You both were our mentors in Zaire and in Belgium. A great hero has now led the way for us to eternity.--Cynthia J. Adams Fisk, FB
A beautiful testimony! So sorry you are separated for this time. Thankful for the comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our lived ones.--Rich Barrie- Corrie Kammler, FB
What an incredible and powerful tribute to a very dear servant of God. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you Karin and all your family through His Grace as you remember your father in the glorious hope of being together again. "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.
Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13--Ray-Judy Pountney, FB
Thanks for letting us know with such a meaningful tribute. I will read it over and over. I am so sad for earthly loss, so grateful for Nils' use by God in our lives, so moved, so awed, so helpless, so full, so emptied, so joyful thinking of his reward--I'll go through the comments, agreeing in prayer with the community. Loving our Savior, loving Laura, loving you & your family.--Judy Krysl, FB
A truly beautiful legacy of a life lived in pursuit of Jesus! God's comfort and grace to you all as your commemorate and grieve.--Nick Bank, FB
Våra varmaste tankar i er sorg och saknad! Vilka vackra minnen din far lämnade!--Irma Janzon, FB
(Our warmest thoughts in your sadness and missing! What beautiful memories your father left!--translation from Swedish)
What a great tribute to your sweet Dad. We are deeply saddened for your personal loss. We are saddened for us too since we dearly love your parents. They were an integral part of our lives, especially in Zaire. They were like another set of parents. He will be dearly missed. . Love to all of you!!--Roylene Michels, FB
∼
Funeral leaflet (planned by Nils Oldberg)
Nils Oldberg
Celebration of Life
Prelude: Andre and Sierra Oldberg
Welcome and Invocation: David Oldberg
Congregation: Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts (all 5 verses)
Obituary: Rachel Bliss
Special Song: My Dearest Friend
Words: Nils Oldberg. Reader: Hanna Nikkel. Instumentals. Tune of "The Old Refrain" by Fritz Kreisler, arr. Sierra Oldberg and Karin Oldberg
My Dearest Friend
Jesus will ever be my dearest friend,
And he'll never depart from me ev'n in the end
When sin shall claim its wage, he'll be with me.
When Satan's hosts ensnare, he'll set me free.
For God so loved the world that he did give
His son, His all, for me that I might live;
Sent him to earth to die on Calvary;
Suffering death and shame, made sin for me.
Christ is the lovely one, fairer than all.
His name, above all names, it shall not fall.
Jesus, Emmanuel, Lord from above;
I praise his precious name. Give him my love.
Eulogy: Pastor Glen Hudson
Congregation: Amazing Grace (all 5 verses). The last verse was written by Nils in Manitowoc, Wisconsin while he awaited the completion of the Submarine on which he would serve. It is:
I love to sing my Savior's praise
And of His grace to me.
He saved me from a burning hell.
Someday his face I'll see.
Special Music: Living for Jesus (6 vocals)--The Oldberg Family
Message: Pastor Nick Bank
Memories: family and friends, let by Paul Oldberg
Congregation: Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine (all three verses)
Closing prayer.
Flag ceremony: American Legion. Taps: Josiah Bliss. Closing Prayer: Pastor Nick. Postlude: Will Burchell.
Instrumentalists:
Andre Oldberg-violin Sierra Oldberg-piano/guitar
Eleanor McMullen-violin Annie Burchell-violin
Hannah Bliss-piano Joie Burchell-cello
Nate Bliss-ukelele/box drum Karin Oldberg-piano
Will Burchell-harmonica/piano
Carl Bliss-harmonica Erik Oldberg-guitar
Josiah Bliss-trombone Sarah Oldberg-guitar
Interment at the cemetery adjoining the Center Ridge United Presbyterian Church, eight miles north of Red Oak, Iowa.
"Joy in Sorrow"
We tend to think it tragedy,
When loved ones go away;
And sometimes think that God's asleep,
Or hasn't much to say.
But listen friend He sent His Son,
That death should not depress;
And those who die with faith in Him,
Might live in holiness.
A fairer city was never built,
The streets are purest gold;
And Jesus is the shining light,
To saints within His fold.
With joy I'll bid my loved ones go,
For their joy's also mine;
And I will meet them over there,
Where God has banished time.
My flesh may quake, my heart may fear,
But down within my soul,
I find that Christ, my all in all,
Still comforts and consoles.
----Niles Oldberg
(Written by Nils while in the Navy and sent to the wife of a Christian friend who lost his life when his submarine was sunk.)
Nils was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 14, 1923 to John Efraim and Ingrid (Magelssen) Oldberg. He graduated from Henry C. Kumpf Elementary School and Paseo High School, both in Kansas City, Missouri. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was about 5 years old and was baptized when he was 9 years old at the Michigan Avenue Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO.
He served a carpenter apprenticeship under his father and was a member of Carpenter's Union no. 71 in Kansas City, MO. He served three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine Guavina, SS 362 during WWII. Nils received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Missouri in 1950. He was a member of the University of Missouri chapter of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship during his college years and was the president of the IVCP for two years. He married Laura Lucille Shields on June 8, 1951. He and Laura became missionaries, serving with the Evangelical Free Church of America from 1951 – 1990. This included one year of studies at Trinity Bible College and Seminary, followed by another year of studies in Belgium to learn French and then to complete the " Colonial Course" required by the Belgian government for teaching in the Belgium Congo. They arrived in Congo on October 1,1953 to begin their teaching ministry.
Nils also earned a Master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 1966. He was preparing to teach and be the principal of a new Secondary School started by the Free Church mission in Congo. Nils and Laura served in two different secondary schools in Congo until 1973. Since Nils' position in Congo, as principal of the teacher training high school, was being filled by a Congo university graduate, and it appeared that their ministry in Congo was ending, they were asked by the Mission to open a new field in Belgium and do church planting.
This required that he go to seminary for two years, earning a Master's degree in Missions and Evangelism. He was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in September 1977, and in November the couple went to Belgium to begin the work. After starting two churches in the greater Brussels area, they retired in 1990. Nils then served the mission as coordinator of Missionary Construction Teams, recruiting and sending teams to do construction work in many countries where the Mission was involved. He accompanied several of these teams and worked alongside them. In 1996 he retired from the work.
He is survived by, Laura Oldberg, his wife of 71 years, his children; Rachel Ingrid & Nathan Bliss of Rockford, IL; David Loren & Karin Oldberg of Blair, NE; Paul Jonathan & Patti Oldberg of Missouri Valley, IA. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and their spouses, and by 28 great grandchildren.
∼
By his son David Oldberg, shared on FaceBook
Today Dad died. (9/24/22)
My mind jumps to many things. His expertise as a wood-worker, his joy in song (even his hillbilly music) his training us in hunting values, and husbanding, and chemistry, and farming, and in God's Word, in mechanics and carpentry, in literature and music and art … and so much more.
His passing won't be felt by world powers. It won't have significant influence on the course of history. In fact he will be remembered by few of those he has worked with, and will be mourned by few in his community. His problem is that he outlived most of those he worked with, and in the years he lived here he ministered especially to the elderly… many of whom have predeceased him.
Significantly, however, he and mom never felt that age was a boundary they could not cross, so we will find that among those whose lives have been touched by him were not only his peers among the senior citizenry, but the next generation, and the one after them… up until a few years ago they were mentors for young people going through church classes at the Lutheran church.
If you were to wonder what drove him to reach out to people I could tell you the answer. Some will despise the answer, but some will be relieved that there is an answer. This drive didn't proceed from his personal strength of character - although he certainly possessed that, nor did it come from him being a good man who wanted to do good in the world (although those were evidenced in his actions). He would want you to know that his power came from a conviction of The Holy God demanding perfect obedience of a human race who cannot attain that measure, but have to rely on The perfect sacrifice (Jesus death on the cross) to accede to godliness.
He would tell you that as a young child he put his faith in that sacrifice for his sins, and he never looked back. This faith carried him through the difficult teenage years, through the dangerous years as a submariner in the Second World War. through college studies and preparation to ministry in Africa. This faith carried him through seminary studies in a midlife career change to proclaiming the Good News of hope in Jesus in a foreign land with a foreign language… again. He would tell you that Jesus has faithfully carried him all the way through cultural reacquisition and retirement and aging and now dying. As we sang "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine" this evening he seemed to rally for just a few moments —-it seemed he was joining our song—- before giving up his body and leaving a tear in his eye … not sorrow at leaving, but JOY at entering the presence of God and seeing Jesus face to face. And he would want you to consider Jesus and find your hope, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nils was truly the most significant person in my walk with evangelism. He taught me that no one person lead someone to Jesus. Consider yourself fortunate if by example you cry someone to seek Jesus out. I was struggling with that years ago when I lived in Lake Elmo and he in his mild manner convinced me that by just leading a godly life that's what Jesus wanted us to do. He and Laura are such a great Christian example that I'm sure he's meeting a lot of people in heaven that are telling him how he was in part one of the reasons they're in heaven today. And I'm sure as soon as he got there our Lord and Savior said well done Good and faithful servant. Joy your time with our Savior, Nils, you will be missed here on earth.--Mary Mosbey FB
Well done, good and faithful servant. We so enjoyed both of your parents sitting behind us in church and encouraging us to keep doing it, no matter how squirrelly the kids got. You could see the heart of Jesus in them both. Praying for the entire Oldberg family at this time.--Lizz Abrahams, FB
Faithful servant of God ! He is in His presence!!!--Nubako Selenga, FB
Nubako Selenga merci mingi. Nous remercions notre Seigneur pour tout ce temps qu'il nous a donné avec notre père. (Il est mort à l'âge de 99 ans) Nous Le remercions également qu'il a daigné donner à nos parents l'honneur de Le servir au Congo et en Belgique. Soko nzela ezali koyebisa lingomba na Équateur nsango na kufa na tata ekosunga mama koyeba été baninga kuna bayebi yango. Mapamboli!--reply by David Oldberg.
(Nubako Selenga thank you so much. We thank our Lord for all the time he gave us with our father. (He died at the age of 99) We also thank Him for giving our parents the honor of serving Him in Congo and Belgium. If the road is to inform the community in Ecuador that my father is dead, it will help my mother to know that friends there are aware. Blessings!--translation from French)
Beautiful tribute! Thanks be to God for your Dad's deep faith convictions and how he in turn faithfully lived that out! God's peace and comfort in your loss here on earth—added treasure in heaven!--Dennis K Carlson, FB
We just saw him last week on a zoom Belgian reunion. Wow. We pray for comfort for all of you - and Laura Oldberg. You both were our mentors in Zaire and in Belgium. A great hero has now led the way for us to eternity.--Cynthia J. Adams Fisk, FB
A beautiful testimony! So sorry you are separated for this time. Thankful for the comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our lived ones.--Rich Barrie- Corrie Kammler, FB
What an incredible and powerful tribute to a very dear servant of God. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you Karin and all your family through His Grace as you remember your father in the glorious hope of being together again. "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.
Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13--Ray-Judy Pountney, FB
Thanks for letting us know with such a meaningful tribute. I will read it over and over. I am so sad for earthly loss, so grateful for Nils' use by God in our lives, so moved, so awed, so helpless, so full, so emptied, so joyful thinking of his reward--I'll go through the comments, agreeing in prayer with the community. Loving our Savior, loving Laura, loving you & your family.--Judy Krysl, FB
A truly beautiful legacy of a life lived in pursuit of Jesus! God's comfort and grace to you all as your commemorate and grieve.--Nick Bank, FB
Våra varmaste tankar i er sorg och saknad! Vilka vackra minnen din far lämnade!--Irma Janzon, FB
(Our warmest thoughts in your sadness and missing! What beautiful memories your father left!--translation from Swedish)
What a great tribute to your sweet Dad. We are deeply saddened for your personal loss. We are saddened for us too since we dearly love your parents. They were an integral part of our lives, especially in Zaire. They were like another set of parents. He will be dearly missed. . Love to all of you!!--Roylene Michels, FB
∼
Funeral leaflet (planned by Nils Oldberg)
Nils Oldberg
Celebration of Life
Prelude: Andre and Sierra Oldberg
Welcome and Invocation: David Oldberg
Congregation: Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts (all 5 verses)
Obituary: Rachel Bliss
Special Song: My Dearest Friend
Words: Nils Oldberg. Reader: Hanna Nikkel. Instumentals. Tune of "The Old Refrain" by Fritz Kreisler, arr. Sierra Oldberg and Karin Oldberg
My Dearest Friend
Jesus will ever be my dearest friend,
And he'll never depart from me ev'n in the end
When sin shall claim its wage, he'll be with me.
When Satan's hosts ensnare, he'll set me free.
For God so loved the world that he did give
His son, His all, for me that I might live;
Sent him to earth to die on Calvary;
Suffering death and shame, made sin for me.
Christ is the lovely one, fairer than all.
His name, above all names, it shall not fall.
Jesus, Emmanuel, Lord from above;
I praise his precious name. Give him my love.
Eulogy: Pastor Glen Hudson
Congregation: Amazing Grace (all 5 verses). The last verse was written by Nils in Manitowoc, Wisconsin while he awaited the completion of the Submarine on which he would serve. It is:
I love to sing my Savior's praise
And of His grace to me.
He saved me from a burning hell.
Someday his face I'll see.
Special Music: Living for Jesus (6 vocals)--The Oldberg Family
Message: Pastor Nick Bank
Memories: family and friends, let by Paul Oldberg
Congregation: Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine (all three verses)
Closing prayer.
Flag ceremony: American Legion. Taps: Josiah Bliss. Closing Prayer: Pastor Nick. Postlude: Will Burchell.
Instrumentalists:
Andre Oldberg-violin Sierra Oldberg-piano/guitar
Eleanor McMullen-violin Annie Burchell-violin
Hannah Bliss-piano Joie Burchell-cello
Nate Bliss-ukelele/box drum Karin Oldberg-piano
Will Burchell-harmonica/piano
Carl Bliss-harmonica Erik Oldberg-guitar
Josiah Bliss-trombone Sarah Oldberg-guitar
Interment at the cemetery adjoining the Center Ridge United Presbyterian Church, eight miles north of Red Oak, Iowa.
"Joy in Sorrow"
We tend to think it tragedy,
When loved ones go away;
And sometimes think that God's asleep,
Or hasn't much to say.
But listen friend He sent His Son,
That death should not depress;
And those who die with faith in Him,
Might live in holiness.
A fairer city was never built,
The streets are purest gold;
And Jesus is the shining light,
To saints within His fold.
With joy I'll bid my loved ones go,
For their joy's also mine;
And I will meet them over there,
Where God has banished time.
My flesh may quake, my heart may fear,
But down within my soul,
I find that Christ, my all in all,
Still comforts and consoles.
----Niles Oldberg
(Written by Nils while in the Navy and sent to the wife of a Christian friend who lost his life when his submarine was sunk.)
Nils Stockfleth Magelsen Oldberg passed away on September 24, 2022 at the age of 99 years in Blair, Nebraska. Services will be held Saturday, October 8, 2022 at PassageWay Church in Blair, NE with family greeting friends from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and services beginning at 2:00 PM. Services will be live streamed by PassageWay Church. Burial will be held in the Center Ridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery north of Red Oak, Iowa at 10 AM on October 9. Memorials may be directed to the Evangelical Free Church of America "Bibles for Congo"
Nils was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 14, 1923 to John Efraim and Ingrid (Magelssen) Oldberg. He graduated from Henry C. Kumpf Elementary School and Paseo High School, both in Kansas City, Missouri. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was about 5 years old and was baptized when he was 9 years old at the Michigan Avenue Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO.
He served a carpenter apprenticeship under his father and was a member of Carpenter's Union no. 71 in Kansas City, MO. He served three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine Guavina, SS 362 during WWII. Nils received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Missouri in 1950. He was a member of the University of Missouri chapter of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship during his college years and was the president of the IVCP for two years. He married Laura Lucille Shields on June 8, 1951. He and Laura became missionaries, serving with the Evangelical Free Church of America from 1951 – 1990. This included one year of studies at Trinity Bible College and Seminary, followed by another year of studies in Belgium to learn French and then to complete the " Colonial Course" required by the Belgian government for teaching in the Belgium Congo. They arrived in Congo on October 1,1953 to begin their teaching ministry.
Nils also earned a Master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 1966. He was preparing to teach and be the principal of a new Secondary School started by the Free Church mission in Congo. Nils and Laura served in two different secondary schools in Congo until 1973. Since Nils' position in Congo, as principal of the teacher training high school, was being filled by a Congo university graduate, and it appeared that their ministry in Congo was ending, they were asked by the Mission to open a new field in Belgium and do church planting.
This required that he go to seminary for two years, earning a Master's degree in Missions and Evangelism. He was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in September 1977, and in November the couple went to Belgium to begin the work. After starting two churches in the greater Brussels area, they retired in 1990. Nils then served the mission as coordinator of Missionary Construction Teams, recruiting and sending teams to do construction work in many countries where the Mission was involved. He accompanied several of these teams and worked alongside them. In 1996 he retired from the work.
He is survived by, Laura Oldberg, his wife of 71 years, his children; Rachel Ingrid & Nathan Bliss of Rockford, IL; David Loren & Karin Oldberg of Blair, NE; Paul Jonathan & Patti Oldberg of Missouri Valley, IA. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and their spouses, and by 28 great grandchildren.
∼
By his son David Oldberg, shared on FaceBook
Today Dad died. (9/24/22)
My mind jumps to many things. His expertise as a wood-worker, his joy in song (even his hillbilly music) his training us in hunting values, and husbanding, and chemistry, and farming, and in God's Word, in mechanics and carpentry, in literature and music and art … and so much more.
His passing won't be felt by world powers. It won't have significant influence on the course of history. In fact he will be remembered by few of those he has worked with, and will be mourned by few in his community. His problem is that he outlived most of those he worked with, and in the years he lived here he ministered especially to the elderly… many of whom have predeceased him.
Significantly, however, he and mom never felt that age was a boundary they could not cross, so we will find that among those whose lives have been touched by him were not only his peers among the senior citizenry, but the next generation, and the one after them… up until a few years ago they were mentors for young people going through church classes at the Lutheran church.
If you were to wonder what drove him to reach out to people I could tell you the answer. Some will despise the answer, but some will be relieved that there is an answer. This drive didn't proceed from his personal strength of character - although he certainly possessed that, nor did it come from him being a good man who wanted to do good in the world (although those were evidenced in his actions). He would want you to know that his power came from a conviction of The Holy God demanding perfect obedience of a human race who cannot attain that measure, but have to rely on The perfect sacrifice (Jesus death on the cross) to accede to godliness.
He would tell you that as a young child he put his faith in that sacrifice for his sins, and he never looked back. This faith carried him through the difficult teenage years, through the dangerous years as a submariner in the Second World War. through college studies and preparation to ministry in Africa. This faith carried him through seminary studies in a midlife career change to proclaiming the Good News of hope in Jesus in a foreign land with a foreign language… again. He would tell you that Jesus has faithfully carried him all the way through cultural reacquisition and retirement and aging and now dying. As we sang "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine" this evening he seemed to rally for just a few moments —-it seemed he was joining our song—- before giving up his body and leaving a tear in his eye … not sorrow at leaving, but JOY at entering the presence of God and seeing Jesus face to face. And he would want you to consider Jesus and find your hope, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nils was truly the most significant person in my walk with evangelism. He taught me that no one person lead someone to Jesus. Consider yourself fortunate if by example you cry someone to seek Jesus out. I was struggling with that years ago when I lived in Lake Elmo and he in his mild manner convinced me that by just leading a godly life that's what Jesus wanted us to do. He and Laura are such a great Christian example that I'm sure he's meeting a lot of people in heaven that are telling him how he was in part one of the reasons they're in heaven today. And I'm sure as soon as he got there our Lord and Savior said well done Good and faithful servant. Joy your time with our Savior, Nils, you will be missed here on earth.--Mary Mosbey FB
Well done, good and faithful servant. We so enjoyed both of your parents sitting behind us in church and encouraging us to keep doing it, no matter how squirrelly the kids got. You could see the heart of Jesus in them both. Praying for the entire Oldberg family at this time.--Lizz Abrahams, FB
Faithful servant of God ! He is in His presence!!!--Nubako Selenga, FB
Nubako Selenga merci mingi. Nous remercions notre Seigneur pour tout ce temps qu'il nous a donné avec notre père. (Il est mort à l'âge de 99 ans) Nous Le remercions également qu'il a daigné donner à nos parents l'honneur de Le servir au Congo et en Belgique. Soko nzela ezali koyebisa lingomba na Équateur nsango na kufa na tata ekosunga mama koyeba été baninga kuna bayebi yango. Mapamboli!--reply by David Oldberg.
(Nubako Selenga thank you so much. We thank our Lord for all the time he gave us with our father. (He died at the age of 99) We also thank Him for giving our parents the honor of serving Him in Congo and Belgium. If the road is to inform the community in Ecuador that my father is dead, it will help my mother to know that friends there are aware. Blessings!--translation from French)
Beautiful tribute! Thanks be to God for your Dad's deep faith convictions and how he in turn faithfully lived that out! God's peace and comfort in your loss here on earth—added treasure in heaven!--Dennis K Carlson, FB
We just saw him last week on a zoom Belgian reunion. Wow. We pray for comfort for all of you - and Laura Oldberg. You both were our mentors in Zaire and in Belgium. A great hero has now led the way for us to eternity.--Cynthia J. Adams Fisk, FB
A beautiful testimony! So sorry you are separated for this time. Thankful for the comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our lived ones.--Rich Barrie- Corrie Kammler, FB
What an incredible and powerful tribute to a very dear servant of God. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you Karin and all your family through His Grace as you remember your father in the glorious hope of being together again. "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.
Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13--Ray-Judy Pountney, FB
Thanks for letting us know with such a meaningful tribute. I will read it over and over. I am so sad for earthly loss, so grateful for Nils' use by God in our lives, so moved, so awed, so helpless, so full, so emptied, so joyful thinking of his reward--I'll go through the comments, agreeing in prayer with the community. Loving our Savior, loving Laura, loving you & your family.--Judy Krysl, FB
A truly beautiful legacy of a life lived in pursuit of Jesus! God's comfort and grace to you all as your commemorate and grieve.--Nick Bank, FB
Våra varmaste tankar i er sorg och saknad! Vilka vackra minnen din far lämnade!--Irma Janzon, FB
(Our warmest thoughts in your sadness and missing! What beautiful memories your father left!--translation from Swedish)
What a great tribute to your sweet Dad. We are deeply saddened for your personal loss. We are saddened for us too since we dearly love your parents. They were an integral part of our lives, especially in Zaire. They were like another set of parents. He will be dearly missed. . Love to all of you!!--Roylene Michels, FB
∼
Funeral leaflet (planned by Nils Oldberg)
Nils Oldberg
Celebration of Life
Prelude: Andre and Sierra Oldberg
Welcome and Invocation: David Oldberg
Congregation: Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts (all 5 verses)
Obituary: Rachel Bliss
Special Song: My Dearest Friend
Words: Nils Oldberg. Reader: Hanna Nikkel. Instumentals. Tune of "The Old Refrain" by Fritz Kreisler, arr. Sierra Oldberg and Karin Oldberg
My Dearest Friend
Jesus will ever be my dearest friend,
And he'll never depart from me ev'n in the end
When sin shall claim its wage, he'll be with me.
When Satan's hosts ensnare, he'll set me free.
For God so loved the world that he did give
His son, His all, for me that I might live;
Sent him to earth to die on Calvary;
Suffering death and shame, made sin for me.
Christ is the lovely one, fairer than all.
His name, above all names, it shall not fall.
Jesus, Emmanuel, Lord from above;
I praise his precious name. Give him my love.
Eulogy: Pastor Glen Hudson
Congregation: Amazing Grace (all 5 verses). The last verse was written by Nils in Manitowoc, Wisconsin while he awaited the completion of the Submarine on which he would serve. It is:
I love to sing my Savior's praise
And of His grace to me.
He saved me from a burning hell.
Someday his face I'll see.
Special Music: Living for Jesus (6 vocals)--The Oldberg Family
Message: Pastor Nick Bank
Memories: family and friends, let by Paul Oldberg
Congregation: Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine (all three verses)
Closing prayer.
Flag ceremony: American Legion. Taps: Josiah Bliss. Closing Prayer: Pastor Nick. Postlude: Will Burchell.
Instrumentalists:
Andre Oldberg-violin Sierra Oldberg-piano/guitar
Eleanor McMullen-violin Annie Burchell-violin
Hannah Bliss-piano Joie Burchell-cello
Nate Bliss-ukelele/box drum Karin Oldberg-piano
Will Burchell-harmonica/piano
Carl Bliss-harmonica Erik Oldberg-guitar
Josiah Bliss-trombone Sarah Oldberg-guitar
Interment at the cemetery adjoining the Center Ridge United Presbyterian Church, eight miles north of Red Oak, Iowa.
"Joy in Sorrow"
We tend to think it tragedy,
When loved ones go away;
And sometimes think that God's asleep,
Or hasn't much to say.
But listen friend He sent His Son,
That death should not depress;
And those who die with faith in Him,
Might live in holiness.
A fairer city was never built,
The streets are purest gold;
And Jesus is the shining light,
To saints within His fold.
With joy I'll bid my loved ones go,
For their joy's also mine;
And I will meet them over there,
Where God has banished time.
My flesh may quake, my heart may fear,
But down within my soul,
I find that Christ, my all in all,
Still comforts and consoles.
----Niles Oldberg
(Written by Nils while in the Navy and sent to the wife of a Christian friend who lost his life when his submarine was sunk.)
Nils was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 14, 1923 to John Efraim and Ingrid (Magelssen) Oldberg. He graduated from Henry C. Kumpf Elementary School and Paseo High School, both in Kansas City, Missouri. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was about 5 years old and was baptized when he was 9 years old at the Michigan Avenue Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO.
He served a carpenter apprenticeship under his father and was a member of Carpenter's Union no. 71 in Kansas City, MO. He served three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine Guavina, SS 362 during WWII. Nils received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Missouri in 1950. He was a member of the University of Missouri chapter of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship during his college years and was the president of the IVCP for two years. He married Laura Lucille Shields on June 8, 1951. He and Laura became missionaries, serving with the Evangelical Free Church of America from 1951 – 1990. This included one year of studies at Trinity Bible College and Seminary, followed by another year of studies in Belgium to learn French and then to complete the " Colonial Course" required by the Belgian government for teaching in the Belgium Congo. They arrived in Congo on October 1,1953 to begin their teaching ministry.
Nils also earned a Master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 1966. He was preparing to teach and be the principal of a new Secondary School started by the Free Church mission in Congo. Nils and Laura served in two different secondary schools in Congo until 1973. Since Nils' position in Congo, as principal of the teacher training high school, was being filled by a Congo university graduate, and it appeared that their ministry in Congo was ending, they were asked by the Mission to open a new field in Belgium and do church planting.
This required that he go to seminary for two years, earning a Master's degree in Missions and Evangelism. He was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in September 1977, and in November the couple went to Belgium to begin the work. After starting two churches in the greater Brussels area, they retired in 1990. Nils then served the mission as coordinator of Missionary Construction Teams, recruiting and sending teams to do construction work in many countries where the Mission was involved. He accompanied several of these teams and worked alongside them. In 1996 he retired from the work.
He is survived by, Laura Oldberg, his wife of 71 years, his children; Rachel Ingrid & Nathan Bliss of Rockford, IL; David Loren & Karin Oldberg of Blair, NE; Paul Jonathan & Patti Oldberg of Missouri Valley, IA. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and their spouses, and by 28 great grandchildren.
∼
By his son David Oldberg, shared on FaceBook
Today Dad died. (9/24/22)
My mind jumps to many things. His expertise as a wood-worker, his joy in song (even his hillbilly music) his training us in hunting values, and husbanding, and chemistry, and farming, and in God's Word, in mechanics and carpentry, in literature and music and art … and so much more.
His passing won't be felt by world powers. It won't have significant influence on the course of history. In fact he will be remembered by few of those he has worked with, and will be mourned by few in his community. His problem is that he outlived most of those he worked with, and in the years he lived here he ministered especially to the elderly… many of whom have predeceased him.
Significantly, however, he and mom never felt that age was a boundary they could not cross, so we will find that among those whose lives have been touched by him were not only his peers among the senior citizenry, but the next generation, and the one after them… up until a few years ago they were mentors for young people going through church classes at the Lutheran church.
If you were to wonder what drove him to reach out to people I could tell you the answer. Some will despise the answer, but some will be relieved that there is an answer. This drive didn't proceed from his personal strength of character - although he certainly possessed that, nor did it come from him being a good man who wanted to do good in the world (although those were evidenced in his actions). He would want you to know that his power came from a conviction of The Holy God demanding perfect obedience of a human race who cannot attain that measure, but have to rely on The perfect sacrifice (Jesus death on the cross) to accede to godliness.
He would tell you that as a young child he put his faith in that sacrifice for his sins, and he never looked back. This faith carried him through the difficult teenage years, through the dangerous years as a submariner in the Second World War. through college studies and preparation to ministry in Africa. This faith carried him through seminary studies in a midlife career change to proclaiming the Good News of hope in Jesus in a foreign land with a foreign language… again. He would tell you that Jesus has faithfully carried him all the way through cultural reacquisition and retirement and aging and now dying. As we sang "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine" this evening he seemed to rally for just a few moments —-it seemed he was joining our song—- before giving up his body and leaving a tear in his eye … not sorrow at leaving, but JOY at entering the presence of God and seeing Jesus face to face. And he would want you to consider Jesus and find your hope, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nils was truly the most significant person in my walk with evangelism. He taught me that no one person lead someone to Jesus. Consider yourself fortunate if by example you cry someone to seek Jesus out. I was struggling with that years ago when I lived in Lake Elmo and he in his mild manner convinced me that by just leading a godly life that's what Jesus wanted us to do. He and Laura are such a great Christian example that I'm sure he's meeting a lot of people in heaven that are telling him how he was in part one of the reasons they're in heaven today. And I'm sure as soon as he got there our Lord and Savior said well done Good and faithful servant. Joy your time with our Savior, Nils, you will be missed here on earth.--Mary Mosbey FB
Well done, good and faithful servant. We so enjoyed both of your parents sitting behind us in church and encouraging us to keep doing it, no matter how squirrelly the kids got. You could see the heart of Jesus in them both. Praying for the entire Oldberg family at this time.--Lizz Abrahams, FB
Faithful servant of God ! He is in His presence!!!--Nubako Selenga, FB
Nubako Selenga merci mingi. Nous remercions notre Seigneur pour tout ce temps qu'il nous a donné avec notre père. (Il est mort à l'âge de 99 ans) Nous Le remercions également qu'il a daigné donner à nos parents l'honneur de Le servir au Congo et en Belgique. Soko nzela ezali koyebisa lingomba na Équateur nsango na kufa na tata ekosunga mama koyeba été baninga kuna bayebi yango. Mapamboli!--reply by David Oldberg.
(Nubako Selenga thank you so much. We thank our Lord for all the time he gave us with our father. (He died at the age of 99) We also thank Him for giving our parents the honor of serving Him in Congo and Belgium. If the road is to inform the community in Ecuador that my father is dead, it will help my mother to know that friends there are aware. Blessings!--translation from French)
Beautiful tribute! Thanks be to God for your Dad's deep faith convictions and how he in turn faithfully lived that out! God's peace and comfort in your loss here on earth—added treasure in heaven!--Dennis K Carlson, FB
We just saw him last week on a zoom Belgian reunion. Wow. We pray for comfort for all of you - and Laura Oldberg. You both were our mentors in Zaire and in Belgium. A great hero has now led the way for us to eternity.--Cynthia J. Adams Fisk, FB
A beautiful testimony! So sorry you are separated for this time. Thankful for the comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our lived ones.--Rich Barrie- Corrie Kammler, FB
What an incredible and powerful tribute to a very dear servant of God. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you Karin and all your family through His Grace as you remember your father in the glorious hope of being together again. "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.
Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." Hebrews 13--Ray-Judy Pountney, FB
Thanks for letting us know with such a meaningful tribute. I will read it over and over. I am so sad for earthly loss, so grateful for Nils' use by God in our lives, so moved, so awed, so helpless, so full, so emptied, so joyful thinking of his reward--I'll go through the comments, agreeing in prayer with the community. Loving our Savior, loving Laura, loving you & your family.--Judy Krysl, FB
A truly beautiful legacy of a life lived in pursuit of Jesus! God's comfort and grace to you all as your commemorate and grieve.--Nick Bank, FB
Våra varmaste tankar i er sorg och saknad! Vilka vackra minnen din far lämnade!--Irma Janzon, FB
(Our warmest thoughts in your sadness and missing! What beautiful memories your father left!--translation from Swedish)
What a great tribute to your sweet Dad. We are deeply saddened for your personal loss. We are saddened for us too since we dearly love your parents. They were an integral part of our lives, especially in Zaire. They were like another set of parents. He will be dearly missed. . Love to all of you!!--Roylene Michels, FB
∼
Funeral leaflet (planned by Nils Oldberg)
Nils Oldberg
Celebration of Life
Prelude: Andre and Sierra Oldberg
Welcome and Invocation: David Oldberg
Congregation: Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts (all 5 verses)
Obituary: Rachel Bliss
Special Song: My Dearest Friend
Words: Nils Oldberg. Reader: Hanna Nikkel. Instumentals. Tune of "The Old Refrain" by Fritz Kreisler, arr. Sierra Oldberg and Karin Oldberg
My Dearest Friend
Jesus will ever be my dearest friend,
And he'll never depart from me ev'n in the end
When sin shall claim its wage, he'll be with me.
When Satan's hosts ensnare, he'll set me free.
For God so loved the world that he did give
His son, His all, for me that I might live;
Sent him to earth to die on Calvary;
Suffering death and shame, made sin for me.
Christ is the lovely one, fairer than all.
His name, above all names, it shall not fall.
Jesus, Emmanuel, Lord from above;
I praise his precious name. Give him my love.
Eulogy: Pastor Glen Hudson
Congregation: Amazing Grace (all 5 verses). The last verse was written by Nils in Manitowoc, Wisconsin while he awaited the completion of the Submarine on which he would serve. It is:
I love to sing my Savior's praise
And of His grace to me.
He saved me from a burning hell.
Someday his face I'll see.
Special Music: Living for Jesus (6 vocals)--The Oldberg Family
Message: Pastor Nick Bank
Memories: family and friends, let by Paul Oldberg
Congregation: Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine (all three verses)
Closing prayer.
Flag ceremony: American Legion. Taps: Josiah Bliss. Closing Prayer: Pastor Nick. Postlude: Will Burchell.
Instrumentalists:
Andre Oldberg-violin Sierra Oldberg-piano/guitar
Eleanor McMullen-violin Annie Burchell-violin
Hannah Bliss-piano Joie Burchell-cello
Nate Bliss-ukelele/box drum Karin Oldberg-piano
Will Burchell-harmonica/piano
Carl Bliss-harmonica Erik Oldberg-guitar
Josiah Bliss-trombone Sarah Oldberg-guitar
Interment at the cemetery adjoining the Center Ridge United Presbyterian Church, eight miles north of Red Oak, Iowa.
"Joy in Sorrow"
We tend to think it tragedy,
When loved ones go away;
And sometimes think that God's asleep,
Or hasn't much to say.
But listen friend He sent His Son,
That death should not depress;
And those who die with faith in Him,
Might live in holiness.
A fairer city was never built,
The streets are purest gold;
And Jesus is the shining light,
To saints within His fold.
With joy I'll bid my loved ones go,
For their joy's also mine;
And I will meet them over there,
Where God has banished time.
My flesh may quake, my heart may fear,
But down within my soul,
I find that Christ, my all in all,
Still comforts and consoles.
----Niles Oldberg
(Written by Nils while in the Navy and sent to the wife of a Christian friend who lost his life when his submarine was sunk.)
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