Nielsen – Karen Sophie Nielsen of Tilley, beloved wife of the late Gordon Nielsen, passed away peacefully at Sunrise Gardens in Brooks on Friday November 9th, 2018 at the age of 89 years. Sophie was born on July 7th, 1929 in Hardy, Nebraska to parents Anton and Sophia Jensen. She was the youngest of nine children. In the spring of 1930, Sophie’s family, along with many other Danish families, moved to Tilley, Alberta where they settled and eventually Sophie’s parents became landowners. Sophie grew up in Tilley, attended Renfrew School and was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church. She married Gordon Nielsen on April 6th, 1952 and together they had eight children. Sophie was a great wife and mother who will forever be remembered for her dedication to her faith and devotion to her family. She was the most hospitable and generous individual, the best cook ever and soon her kitchen on the farm became known as “Sophie’s Diner”. Many neighbors, friends and family would stop by for a visit as it was a guarantee that Sophie would always have the coffee pot on, along with a freshly baked treat of some sort. Sophie was the last remaining living charter member of Bethany Lutheran Church. She was predeceased by her loving husband Gordon, one granddaughter, her parents, Anton and Sophia Jensen, one brother, seven sisters, one sister-in-law, nine brothers-in-law, five nephews and four nieces. Sophie is survived by her children, David (Linda), Philip, Anna (Will Moeller), Debora (Rob Phippen), Peter (Barbara), Harold (Liana), Rodney (Jenifer), Heather (Gaylon Lunn); 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one brother-in law; two sisters-in law and numerous nieces and nephews. Sophie’s family wishes to thank Dr. Thomson and the compassionate care aids from the second floor at Sunrise Gardens for the tender care they provided and the love they showed towards mom. Sunrise Gardens had become mom’s home for nearly the last five years of her life. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 17th at 1:00 PM from Bethany Lutheran Church, Tilley AB. with Rev. Reg Berg and Rev. Les Skonnard officiating. A private burial will be held at the Bethany Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Sophie’s sons, David, Philip, Peter, Harold, Rodney and her grandson Ryan Moeller. In memory of Sophie, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to either the Bethany Lutheran Church, Rural Route #1, Tilley, AB. T0J 3K0 or Charity of Choice.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
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