Nancy Helland Nelson of St. Paul died January 23, 2021, at the age of 91. An intelligent, strong- willed, compassionate wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Nancy led with her heart and listened with genuine interest. Nancy loved classical music, theater, and choral concerts - especially with cello. She laughed joyously and delighted in hosting visitors, family, and friends. Born July 12, 1929, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Nancy Waite Helland grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She graduated from Central High School in Tulsa and St. Olaf College in 1951. She met John F. Nelson at St. Olaf, and they married in 1952. For eight years, Nancy worked alongside John in three South Dakota churches in Salem, Spencer, and Brookings. A short stay at Princeton for John's graduate theology degree turned into 34 years at Calvary Lutheran Church in Allendale, New Jersey. Nancy was integral in serving this growing congregation, coordinating activities such as youth groups, bible study, women's circle, church women's executive board, choir, family retreats, and Koinonia camping. Nancy and John also enjoyed visiting friends and relatives in Norway, France, and the U.S. Nancy is remembered for her wit, wisdom, and grace.

Preceded in death by husband Rev. John F. Nelson and parents N.D. and Naomi Helland. Nancy is dearly missed by her children: Kristen Nelson (Tom Will; Kaila and Thorbjorn) of St. Paul, Gretchen Nelson (John Wolfe Jr.; Rebecca and Avery) of Anchorage, AK, Kathryn Nelson (H.T. Fish; Taryn and Schyler) of St. Paul, Julie B. Comes (Dean; Madison, Mikayla, and Collin) of Lewistown, MT, and Rev. John D.F. Nelson (Stephanie: Sarah and Tyler) of Bloomington. She is survived by her brother, Dennis Helland (Jane) of Bloomington and many dear Helland and Nelson/Roe relatives.

The family especially thanks the compassionate caregivers who competently assisted Nancy when we could not be with her. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held this summer. Memorials welcomed to youth programs, your spiritual home, or St. Olaf College.