Faith Elizabeth Nielsen entered this world on August 28, 1937, and lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith.
Faith was blessed to have two mothers. She was raised by her adoptive parents, Hans and Grace Osher, at their family resort in Blackduck, Minnesota, where she spent her childhood helping with the day-to-day work and learning the value of hard work and hospitality.
She married the love of her life, Mervin Nielsen, and together they made their home in Ringsted, Iowa. While Mervin worked as a television repairman, Faith devoted herself to caring for her family and serving her community. She was a homemaker, daycare provider, and the founder of a local youth center. Her dedication to others earned her the honor of being named Kiwanis Woman of the Year. Faith’s home was always a welcoming place, with a fresh pot of coffee ready for anyone who stopped by. Together, Faith and Mervin raised their three children: Jewel, Michael, and Joy Beth.
Later in life, Faith and Mervin managed condominium communities in Burnsville and Bloomington before retiring to Shakopee, Minnesota. After Mervin’s passing in 2006, Faith embraced opportunities to travel with a dear friend, visiting Maui, New Zealand, and enjoying several cruises. Hawaii always held a special place in her heart.
Faith spent the last year and a half of her life at The Fountains at Hosanna in Lakeville, Minnesota, where she continued to share her warm smile and gentle spirit.
Faith is lovingly remembered by her children, Jewel (Loren) Meyer, Michael (Kym) Nielsen, and Joy Beth (Mike) Jensen; her eight grandchildren; and her twelve great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her half-brothers, Tom Kotila and Rick Kotila, and their families; her sisters-in-1aw, Suzie Christensen, Donna Ulrich, and Diane Miller and their families; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mervin Nielsen; her adoptive parents, Hans and Grace Osher; her birth mother, Doris Kotila; and many cherished family members and lifelong friends.
Faith will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a future date.
Faith’s greatest legacy was the way she lived her life - with compassion, generosity, and steadfast faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. The best way to honor her memory is to live up to her name: Faith.
