Turid Tharaldsen Nelson

Turid Tharaldsen Nelson March 24, 1935 – August 1, 2025 Turid Tharaldsen Nelson, beloved artist, mother, Mimi/Grandma, Big Mimi, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Flower Mound, Texas, on August 1, 2025. She was 90 years old. Born in Oslo, Norway, on March 24, 1935, Turid came to America at the age of 19, full of curiosity, courage, and determination. Leaving her homeland behind, she embraced a new life in Seattle, Washington, with an adventurous spirit. It was there she met the love of her life, Robert Nelson, in a bar, boldly asking him to warm her hands, a story they both loved to tell. That moment sparked a lifelong love story. They married in August of 1962 and built a life filled with their two children and a wide circle of lifelong friends while living in Bellevue, Kirkland, and Woodinville. In 2011, they moved to Flower Mound, Texas, where they continued holding hands, sharing laughter, and building a true partnership until Robert’s passing in 2017. To her family and all who knew her, Turid was remarkable at everything that mattered. She made each person feel uniquely loved and valued—always offering a listening ear, heartfelt wisdom, or something beautifully crafted by hand. Turid had a natural eye for beauty and a spirit for adventure. Before Robert, she was an avid skier who fearlessly flew down the slopes. Throughout her life, she remained an accomplished artist, working with pottery and painting to express her inner world. She was also endlessly inventive, creating whatever she needed out of household items with both style and practicality—a true creative in every sense. She was always prepared (though fashionably late), genuinely loving, and full of Viking strength. Her presence brought comfort, her advice brought clarity, and her spirit brought warmth to all who were lucky enough to know her. She is survived by her children, Mark Nelson (Mary Ann) and Cami Niswonger (Alan); her grandchildren, Tyler Nelson (Raelyn) and Cailan Niswonger; her bonus grandchildren, Angelo Pascua, Jason Niswonger (Amanda), Josh Wolbrueck (Mindy), and Erik Wolbrueck; and her four beloved great-grandchildren. She is also lovingly remembered by her brother, Bjørn Tharaldsen, and a wide circle of nieces and nephews. Turid now reunites with her beloved husband, Robert Nelson; her parents, Trygve and Elise Tharaldsen; her brother, Per; and her sister, Anna Marie. Though raising her family was her heart’s focus, Turid’s faith and inner life were equally important. She was a devoted member of the Order of the Cross and found deep meaning in spiritual study, reflection, and quiet connection with the divine. Her favorite phrase, “Best Ever,” was how she described everything that brought her joy—a perfect day, a perfect cup of tea, or a moment shared with someone she loved. And now, we say it of her: she was the Best Ever. At her request, there will be no formal service. Her family invites you to honor her by creating something beautiful, showing up fully for someone you love, or simply pausing to appreciate the little moments—the ones she always noticed and never took for granted.

Turid Tharaldsen Nelson

March 24, 1935 - August 1, 2025