Obituary of Nancy Lee

Nancy Lee, 87 years old (“I’m almost 90!”), was born to Daisy and Henry Jenson in Fergus Falls, Minnesota on January 14th 1936. She graduated from Fergus High School in 1954 and chose Concordia College to continue her studies in English and Art. There she met the love of her life, Gib Lee, from Fertile, MN. They were married on September 8, 1957. The quote in the Fergus Journal over their wedding announcement was, “Nancy Jenson weds Fertile Man” (More about that quote in a bit). 

 She graduated December 1957 and began teaching in Halstad MN. They moved to St Paul that Fall so Gib could attend Luther Seminary. Nancy taught at Centennial HS in Circle Pines. After Gib graduated, they took their first call to Big Fork, MN in 1962. By this time they had 3 children; Nick was 2 years old, Peppi was 1 year old, and Sunni was 2 weeks old. In May 1964, twins were born (Shelly and Mike) in the parsonage. Nancy swore it was her favorite day. They now had 5 children - 4 years old and younger (The fore-mentioned quote was prophetic to say the least). 

 Together they served at 3 more parishes: Superior, WI (where Greg was born); Cloquet, MN; Moorhead, MN (while Gib was Bishop); and Glenwood, MN. Over the years, Nancy painted portraits for all of Gib’s Lenten sermons. “The Lord of the Resurrection” was published in 1977 by Augsburg Publishing House. Nancy also had several articles published in Scope magazine and other women’s journals. She was the guest speaker at many women’s church gatherings all over the country. 

 In retirement she joined the Battle Lake Art Club, switched from oils to pastels, and sold numerous works of art. When she turned 80 her book, “The Island” was published. When Nancy moved to 7500 York Cooperative in 2016, she began directing Reader’s Theater plays - which were quite the hit. 

Nancy is once again with her love, Gib, and her first born, Nick, in heaven. 

She was a gifted artist, writer, and speaker; but most of all she was an amazing wife, mother, and friend. She will be missed. We celebrate the life she lived and how we were blessed to know her.  

She is survived by Diann Lee, Peppi Trontvet (Kent), Sunni Moe (Dale), Shelly Haaland (Corey), Mike Lee (Susanne), Greg Lee (Jenny), 18 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.

Celebration of Life for Nancy Lee will be held Saturday January 6, 1:00 PM at Transfiguration Lutheran Church, 11000 France Ave . Bloomington, MN. Reception of coffee and sweets to follow