Luceo Marie Nielsen, born on January 11, 1927, to Jasper and Alma Hansen in Audubon, Iowa, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa, at the age of 97.
A graduate of Audubon High School, Luceo married Clarence “Byron” Nielsen on September 10, 1947, in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed by Luceo’s uncle, Pastor N.B. Hansen, who officiated the ceremony.
Together, Luceo and Byron shared a life filled with adventures. They began their family in Elk Horn, IA, later moving to the Los Angeles, California area before settling in Santa Barbara. Once their children were grown, they relocated to the high Sierra, where they enjoyed the mountains and snow. Eventually, they moved to Santa Maria to be closer to their grandchildren. Their final move brought them back to Kimballton, Iowa, where they renovated their last home and pursued a shared passion for antiques. Luceo and Byron opened storefront antique businesses in Kimballton and in Elk Horn, where they became well-known for their skill in restoring and reimagining the beauty of forgotten pieces. For over 20 years, they poured their hearts into the antique business, leaving a legacy that reflected their deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship.
Luceo had a love for gardening and found endless joy among her flowers and vegetables. Her younger children remember her as someone who often lost track of time in her garden, arriving a little late for school pickups. Though cooking was not her favorite task, she was a gifted baker, known for her delightful treats that brought warmth to many gatherings.
Guided by a devoted faith in Jesus, Luceo found strength and comfort throughout her life, and her unwavering belief shaped the love and kindness she showed to others.
Luceo’s life was touched by the love of her family. She is survived by her four children: Craig (Marcia) Nielsen of Bakersfield, California, Janelle Ferrero (Steven) of Woody, California, James (Julie) Nielsen of Elk Horn and Robin Hildreth (Gordon) of Middleton, Idaho; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Jasper and Alma Hansen, husband Byron Nielsen, and brother, Earl Hansen.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Hillside Hope Assembly in Atlantic. Inurnment will take place in Ebenezer Cemetery near Audubon.
