Joyce E. Nelson

Joyce E. Nelson, 86, of Grand Forks, ND, passed peacefully into eternal life on February 27, 2025. 

Born Joyce Eugenia Renner on May 5, 1938, in Richardton, ND, she was the third of seven children to Mike and Eleanor (Gress) Renner. She spent her early years on the family farm near Felton, MN. In 1956, Joyce graduated from Mount Saint Benedict Academy in Crookston, MN, before continuing her training at the New York Hairdressing Academy in Fargo, ND. 

While working at Kato Beauty Salon in Grand Forks, ND, Joyce met the love of her life, Gordon Nelson. They married in 1959 and built a beautiful life together, raising their five children. In 1964, Gordon and Joyce, along with Joyce’s sister Shirley and her husband Alvin Bertsch, opened the first Mexican restaurant in Grand Forks, The Red Pepper. The family moved to Washington state in 1966, where Gordon was in business with his brother, Wesley. They returned to Grand Forks in 1971. Joyce and Gordon’s marriage was a testament to love, faith, and service to others. They were active members of their church, and their home was a gathering place for family and friends, always filled with warmth and hospitality.

Joyce was a devoted wife and mother, cherished grandmother, and doting great-grandmother. Her greatest joy was being surrounded by family.

 Throughout her life, Joyce wore many hats—hairdresser, small business owner, daycare provider, skincare specialist, and health food store manager—but her greatest calling was always caring for others. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering support left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

 Joyce is survived by her children Randy Nelson of Bothell, WA; Keith Nelson of Grand Forks, ND, Lori Bartuska of Thompson, ND, Lisa (Dennis) Baenen Wigren of Arlington, WA, and Linda Nelson of San Diego, CA; grandchildren Erica and Ashley Nelson, Brandi (Aaron) Basting, Nicholas Bartuska, Kate Baenen Wigren, and Kristina Wigren; great-grandchildren Emma and Jack Basting; siblings Doreen (Lee) Payne; Michael (Diana) Renner, and Jim (Diane) Renner; brother-in-law Alvin Bertsch; and sister-in-law Colleen (Ardell) Byzewski, along with dozens of nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Gordon, sons-in-law T. Martin Baenen and Bill Bartuska; sisters Alva Renner, Vernette Engness, and Shirley Bertsch; and several sisters- and brothers-in-law. 

Joyce’s legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

 Visitation will be held from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Amundson Funeral Home. Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Amundson Funeral Home.

Cards may be sent to the family in care of Lori Bartuska, 801 22nd St NE, Thompson, ND 58278.