Paula Jean Nelsen

Paula Jean (Shepard) Nelsen, age 72, of Cottage Grove, MN passed away while peacefully asleep at her home on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Her sudden and unexpected death has left her family profoundly saddened.

Memorial Service will be at 2 PM on Friday, August 2, 2024 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th Street S.; Cottage Grove, MN with visitation one hour prior to the service from 1-2 PM. 

Paula was born February 10, 1952 and grew up in South St. Paul, MN. She married Steve in 1983 and had a wonderful 40 years of marriage. She loyally worked at Brown & Bigelow her entire career, but her true calling was being a mom. She devoted her life to her children and grandchildren, and was the heart and soul of her family.

She loved going on road trips with Steve, and would start planning Christmas in July. She was delighted to babysit any day she could, and would soak up each and every snuggle that came her way.

She selflessly put others' needs before her own, and had the biggest, truest, kindest heart. She was deeply loved and will be so missed.

Paula is survived by her husband, Steve; children, Heather (Jens) Knudsen, and Tim (Nicolle) Nelsen; grandchildren, Faye, Willa, Lane, and Chester; and siblings, Dianne (Baine) Mowry, Bill (Joy) Shepard, Kathy (Gordy) Mattson and Chris (Kathy) Shepard and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Glorine Shepard; and brother, John Shepard.