Betty Jean Nelson, age 73, of Valley City, ND died Saturday, August 11, at Sanford Palliative Care, Fargo. A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, August 16, in the Chapel of Saint Raphael, Sheyenne Care Center, Valley City.

Betty Jean Weidner was born October 13, 1944 on a farm near Fingal, ND. She was the daughter of Gustav and Emma (Lutz). Betty attended school in Fingal, later moving to Valley City, ND graduating from high school in 1962. She married Donald Nelson on April 29, 1967. They made their home in Valley City where she worked for the city as the Deputy Auditor for thirteen years, Montana Dakota Utilities Co. as a district cashier, and at the Open Door Center for many years. She enjoyed time spent with her girls and making memories with her grandchildren.

Betty is survived by her husband of fifty-one years, Don; two daughters, Kimberle (Greg) Lyon, Fargo, ND; Tracie (Ryan) Zaun, Buffalo, ND; grandchildren, Cody Nelson-Olstad and fiancé Kelley Grogan, Fargo; Kiana Bakalar and friend Happy Rivard, Grand Forks; as well as nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters Marian and Marlys.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Oliver-Nathan Funeral Chapel. An online guestbook is available at www.oliver-nathanchapel.com.