Gloria Jean Nelson, known to most as Jean, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 1st, 2021 at the age of 65 while surrounded by family at her home in Prior Lake, MN. Jean was born in 1955 to Hardy and Betty Morningstar in Niagara Falls, Canada.
She was the wife of Duane Keith Nelson with whom she shared 35 years of marriage. Jean and Duane resided in Windom, MN for numerous years before moving to Prior Lake. It is in Windom that they raised their two children. She was the caring and loving mother to Jordan William Nelson and Sarah Elizabeth Nelson, mother-in-law to Ashley Nicole Nelson, and grandmother to Camden, Everett, and Quinn.
Jean studied Music Education at the University of Minnesota. After graduation she went on to work as a school band and choir teacher, and later taught piano lessons for beginner students in her community. She was passionate about music, baking, and spending time with her grandkids. Jean also had a passion for weightlifting and training and always updated her family on her latest personal record. Jean was a member of the Berean Baptist Church where she played keyboard during services. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith in God, all the adventurous play she had with her grandchildren, always sharing her baked goods with everyone, her generosity, warmth, kindness– and of course her homemade granola bars.
Jean is survived by her husband, Duane; children, Sarah Nelson and Jordan (Ashley) Nelson; grandchildren, Camden, Everett, and Quinn Nelson; Mother, Elizabeth Morningstar; sisters, Betty Ann Morningstar and Cindy Morningstar; and her nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father Hardy Morningstar.
Per Jean’s wishes, there will be a private family celebration of life, and we invite you to take a moment to reminisce and laugh at the times you shared with her. Cards can be sent to Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 4565 Pleasant St SE, Prior Lake, MN 55372.
(952) 447-2633
