Diane Foley Nelson

Diane was born May 12, 1935 and passed away December 17, 2024 at age 89. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Nelson; son-in-law, Roy Eller; parents, Robert and Wanda Foley; and brothers, Robert (infant), Donald and Richard Foley.

Diane is survived by her daughters, Mary Kay (David) States, Julie (David) Sorensen, Sandy Ronning and Kathleen Eller. Diane is also survived by her 10 grandchildren, Daniel (Karina) States, Rebekah (Matt) Johnson, Kathryn (Chris) Bengtson, Matthew Sorensen, Laura (Chris Jensch) Sorensen, Eric Ronning, Ryan Ronning, Jennifer Ross, Nicole (Austin) Minnick, Travis Gulley; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Diane was born in St. Louis Park, MN. Her family moved to Duluth, MN when Diane was in high school. She graduated from Central High School in 1953. Diane and Ted married in 1954 and purchased their first home on the North Shore near the French River. There they made life-long friends with the Arnolds, Barlasses, Johnsons, and the Ronnings. They formed a 500 Card Club which lasted for many years.

When all of Diane’s girls were in school, she enrolled in the Duluth Business University. After she completed her education, she began her career with the St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services where she remained until her retirement.

Diane was a member of The Landing Church where she enjoyed participating in numerous Bible studies. She treasured the dear friends she had at church, many of whom visited her in her last days.

Diane was an avid reader, enjoyed daily walks, card club, and book clubs. She was involved in women’s Sorority for many years. She also loved to travel. She and Ted took many trips throughout the USA. She became a widow when she was only 64. Our dad had no interest in traveling overseas, but after he passed away, Diane joined travel groups to visit Ireland, Italy, China, and Israel.

The family would like to thank Brandy and the staff from Essentia Hospice, and the staff at Elysian Senior Homes for their kind and compassionate care of Diane.

The Funeral Service will be at 11:00am on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at The Landing Church, 9302 W Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN with a Visitation beginning at 10:00am. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 218-727-3555.