Nielsen, Mabel Age 102, of Minnetonka MN, passed away on July 18th, 2016. Preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Bjarne Nielsen, six siblings, many beloved brothers-& sisters-in-law; daughter-in-law Carol Lynn Nielsen, and granddaughter Laura Sedgwick. Survived by their five children Margaret Nielsen (Erick Williams), Robert Nielsen, William Nielsen (Gloria), Carol Nielsen (Jon Berdahl) and Linda Nielsen Sedgwick (Richard), nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren. Mabel was born in Minnewaukan, ND to Ole and Marie Aaker, immigrants from Hallingdal Norway. She cherished her Norwegian family heritage, researching and writing about their history. Mabel was active in Norwegian cultural organizations, representing her parents' homeland through music, dance and writing. Music was an enduring passion for her and instilled in her children that love of music. She was an accomplished pianist and organist who studied music at the U of MN and later enjoyed teaching piano. Mabel and Bjarne met and married in Washington DC, where she worked at the U.S. State Department. They later settled in Gaylord MN, together building a successful small business. Mabel was a strong and resilient woman, with a quiet, warm and loving character. She was the matriarch of her extended family, gently but earnestly reminding us of the legacy of her parents. Mabel was a woman of deep faith that sustained her through the joys and sorrows of life. In honor of her selfless love and devotion, please consider a gift to Gethsemane Lutheran Church. Funeral service Monday, August 8 at 11 AM. Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 715 Minnetonka Mills Rd., Hopkins MN.