Janet Nelson

Janet (Wietzema) Nelson, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Fargo, ND, after a courageous fight with cancer. Born on March 14, 1954, in Sheldon, IA, Janet was the middle child in a lively family of thirteen, with six siblings above and six below her. This upbringing instilled in her a fierce love for family and traditions, which would come to define her life.

On August 12th, 1972, Janet married Orville "Butch" Ebert Nelson Jr. in Veblin, SD. Their union flourished for over 50 wonderful years until Butch's passing on January 4, 2023. Together, they created a warm home filled with love and laughter, where Janet's cooking was legendary. She had a remarkable talent for preparing hashbrowns, eggs, and French toast, but it was her meatloaf, three-bean hotdish, and wild game delicacies that truly brought the family together at every gathering.

Janet held her children and grandchildren close to her heart. She was a proud mother to her son, Brad (Deanna) Nelson; her daughter, Jaimee (Kyle) Eken; and her daughter, Jennifer Larson. Each grandchild—Wyatt Nelson (Elly Lahaise), Ava Nelson (Saul Macias), Wyatt Larson, Korbin Eken, and Ellis Eken—brought her immeasurable joy. Janet’s spirit came alive during special moments, whether celebrating birthdays with ice cream cakes alongside her daughter-in-law Deanna, or enjoying delightful trips to the zoo with her beloved grandkids.

Her strong spirit was often on display when watching her favorite team, the Minnesota Vikings. Family and friends could hear her passionate cheers from outside the house, expressing her unwavering support for the team. Additionally, Janet enjoyed making fond memories, like her last boat fishing trip—where she recalled being watched by the DNR throughout the day.

Janet had a love for the simple things in life, from rummaging through yard sales for antiques, to feel the warmth of springtime and the sight of robins. She made holidays special by establishing cherished traditions, like having a Christmas tree housed in a 5-gallon bucket and ensuring the hunters were well-prepared with packed snacks for their excursions. Though she favored shopping, she never enjoyed driving—she preferred to leave that to others. She embraced a life filled with laughter and love.

Janet will be fondly remembered for her kindness, her nurturing spirit, and her dedication to family. Her strong faith was a guiding light in her life, inspiring those around her to cherish the moment and value their loved ones. Every memory holds a piece of her spirit, reminding us all of the joy she spread while encouraging us to live fully and love fiercely.

Janet leaves behind her loving children and grandchildren who will forever carry her legacy in their hearts. She is preceded in death by her husband, Butch, and her parents, Sievert and Alida (Hassebroek) Wietzema and 4 brothers. Though she has left this world, her beautiful memories and the love she instilled in her family will live on, a testament to a life well-lived.