Audrey Nielsen

Audrey V. Nielsen, 95, of Lewis, Iowa, died Sunday, November 3, 2024, at the Greenfield Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Greenfield.

Audrey Verlee Bissell, the daughter of Charles Steven and Gertrude A. (Gordon) Bissell was born on September 13, 1929, in Massena, Iowa. She grew up on the family farm and attended rural school near Massena, graduating from Cumberland High School in 1946.

Audrey was united in marriage to Ronald D. Nielsen on January 24, 1954, at the Methodist Church in Atlantic, Iowa. Three children were born to this union, Kristina, Brent and David.

Audrey was a member of the United Congregational Methodist Church in Lewis and served as an officer on the WFCS - Women’s Fellowship of Christian Service. She was also a member of the Benevolent Patriotic Order of Does - Atlantic Drove #23 and the Red Hats. She enjoyed annual trips to Branson with the KJAN group and other trips throughout the U.S. with family and friends. Audrey was an avid reader and loved working in her flower garden. She looked forward to getting together with friends over many decades to play Bunco and Pinochle.  On occasion she would throw her feet up and watch a Hallmark movie. 

She was known to be a convicted follower of Christ who was often found actively participating in church committees, activities and events while at the same time doing whatever necessary to raise her children and support her grandchildren. Her life of humble love and caring for those around her will be appreciated and remembered for many years to come. 

Audrey is survived by her children, Kris (Carl) Ford of Bridgewater, IA, Brent Nielsen of Winchester, VA and David (Kristie) Nielsen of Washington, IA; grandchildren, Gregory (Dominique Tolle) Ford, Tyler (Rachel) Ford, Natalie Nielsen, Rachael Morrison, Bryce (Rebecca) Nielsen, Amanda (Andrew) Robertson and Michaela (Justin Strong) Castronova; 14 great-grandchildren (and one on the way); and many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Gertrude Bissell; husband, Ronald Nielsen; brothers and sisters-in-law, Marvin (Ethel) Bissell, Virgil (Maudie) Bissell and Earl (Irene) Bissell; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Betty (Don) Drager and Shirley (Kendal) Warne.

Visitation with the family present will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 8th at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic.

Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 9th at the Lewis United Congregational Methodist Church with Pastor Jerry Neal officiating. During the service, a special tribute will be provided to Audrey by the Benevolent Patriotic Order of Does - Atlantic Drove #23

Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Lewis.

Memorials may be made to the family for later designation.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Audrey’s family and her arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.