Obituary: Violet Nilson

Violet Nilson

Grand Forks, N.D.

Violet (Vi) Mae Nilson, age 89, formerly of Sheyenne, N.D. died peacefully on February 4, 2023, in her home in Grand Forks, N.D. with family by her side.

Violet was born on December 26, 1933 in Elmer, N.D., the daughter of Henry and Eva (Heinz) Vannatta. Violet spent many years in New Rockford, N.D. raising her two daughters till meeting her future husband Wayne R. Nilson of Sheyenne, N.D. She moved to rural Sheyenne where they farmed side by side in Rock Township until their retirement.

One of the many activities she loved was bowling, which she did for 27 years. Violet also enjoyed sewing, baking and visiting her many friends in New Rockford and Sheyenne. She served on various committees at Grace Lutheran for many years. After the passing of her husband Wayne in 2015, Vi moved to Grand Forks, N.D. to be closer to family.

Violet enjoyed her new apartment life with meeting new friends, having coffee clutches, and doing puzzles. Vi enjoyed baking for her friends, shopping and eating out with family.

Vi is survived by her two daughters, Lois (Dan) Streh- low, Hastings, Minn., and Cheryl (Paul) Zafke, Emerado, N.D.; six granddaughters, Crystal (Tim) Geier, Fort Myers, Fla.; Cybil Nelson; Lauren (Mark) Grimm, Carmel Valley, Calif.; Leigh Strehlow, Fairbanks, Ala.; Diana Strehlow, Australia; and Ciara Zafke, Grand Forks, N.D. Vi also has five great-grandchildren, Zachary and Jocelyn Geier, Marley Wayne Strehlow Pagel., and Logan and Eva Grimm; two brothers, Julius and twin brother Vernon; sister Linda, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband Wayne, parents Henry and Eva, brother Lyle and sister Bernice.

Vi's wishes were to be cremated, and a grave-side service is planned for Vi at a later date this summer in Sheyenne, N.D.

In memory of Vi, please plant a tree or rose bush.

Arrangements by Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks, N.D.