
Mary Nelson, age 76, died on April 6 in Northfield. Mary worked for almost 38 years at Carleton, beginning in 1978 as an administrative assistant in Buildings and Shop, then in Admissions, and retiring in 2004 from Financial Aid. But retirement wasn’t for Mary, and she returned in 2006 as the Assistant to the Director of the Modern Language Center, retiring a second time in 2018. Former colleagues describe Mary as caring, strong, well informed, and energetic. Her big heart held a large place for students, who cared for and greatly respected her.
Throughout her life, Mary regularly volunteered to help those in need within the Northfield community. Her giving spirit made many others want to be more like her. The many benefit events she helped arrange through the VFW became fun for her co-workers because of her. Mary’s son and his family were her pride and joy, along with friends and her beloved sports teams.
A more complete obituary is available on the Bierman Funeral Home website.
Services will be held on Friday, April 14, at 11am at Bierman Funeral Home. Visitation will be on Thursday, April 13, from 4-7pm, and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Donations in Mary’s name may be given to the Northfield Touchdown Club, 122 Sunny View Dr., Northfield.
Comments
Mary was a force! Small but mighty and when she needed to put a plan into action she was swift. I met her when setting up a venue on campus and I couldn’t keep up with the speed of her walk! We worked together in admissions and I came to know her passions: her son, sports, her friends, garage sales, the VFW and all things Northfield. She told me her dream was to open a 3/2 beer place in northern Minnesota. I hope your dream came true Mary when you stepped into your home in the sky and found your friends waiting for you.
Mary was a great help at the Language Center! I often encountered her at the Family Fare supermarket and I am very sad that I will no longer be able to. My deepest condolences to her family.