Dianne Elizabeth Nelson

Dianne Elizabeth Nelson, age 94, formerly of Aurora, Colorado, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at her residence near St. Paul, Minnesota.

She was born on February 23, 1932, to the late Floyd and Elizabeth (Wiiki) Hatfield in Waukegan, Illinois. On August 21, 1954, she married Sigurd Nelson; they remained married until his death in 2019. For 30 years, she traveled the world as an Air Force Chaplain’s wife, before establishing her long-term home in Aurora, Colorado. She was an active member of Augustana Lutheran Church in Denver.

Dianne was a lifelong volunteer for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a minister of music and public school educator, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music, Organ, Piano, and Choral Conducting. More than anything, she adored spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her beloved children Mark Nelson, Lance (Mina Mayfield) Nelson, and Beth (Mark Stapleton) Nelson; her precious grandson Carl (Rachel Herr-Hoyman) Nelson; and her siblings, Phyllis Wilk, and Roger Hatfield. She is a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many who will miss her deeply.

She is preceded in passing and joins in Heaven her beloved husband Sigurd Nelson; her parents; and her brother Clarence (Carmen) Hatfield.

Friends and family will meet for visitation on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 10AM-11AM at Warren Funeral Home, 1475 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL. The funeral service will then begin at 11AM, followed by interment at Warren Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that gifts may be given in support of Candles for Worship in honor of Dianne Nelson with a check to Augustana Lutheran Church, 5000 E Alameda Ave, Denver, CO 80246 or given online by clicking here: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z4QD/campaign/C-13P2P

Be sure to acknowledge that it is in memory of Dianne Nelson and for Candles for Worship in the “name in memory of and fund designation” field if you choose the online method.