The Fergus Falls Daily Journal

Mary Elizabeth (Beberg) Nelson, 77, of Minneapolis, died peacefully Tuesday, July 31, 2012.

She was preceded in death by parents, Byron and Holly (Kreinbring) Beberg; and a sister, Bethany Trask. Mary was born Nov. 18, 1934. She was interested in the arts even from an early age in times more constrictive than today.

She was an accomplished potter who studied pottery at the University of Minnesota, where she earned her BA in psychology with a minor in art.

Mary also expressed herself creatively through drawings and watercolors, leaving behind a collection of innovative Modern, Impressionistic paintings and artworks.

Her love for the arts was something she shared with all she knew, and passed that legacy to her four creative children who survive her, Bryan Beberg Nelson, Meggen Elizabeth Nelson-Breitshaft, Christopher Benjamin Nelson, and Heather Marie Nelson-Brink; and their father, Charles Nelson; four cherished grandchildren; a sister, Helen (Beberg) Videen; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mary also had a strong interest in helping people, and after graduating worked as an aide at McLean Hospital in Boston, Mass.

She was a counselor and then co-chairwoman with the U of M’s “Summer Camp” program.

Mary’s interest in philosophical teachings, particularly of Martin Bubers and works of Carl Jung, led her to continue to work towards a master’s degree as circumstances in her life allowed.

Mary was a very bright woman with very high aspirations; unfortunately due to circumstances and inherited illnesses she was not able to achieve her full potential, especially regarding her dreams.

She had a very strong will and believed that she could “will” things to happen. An admirable quality that lives on in her descendents.

Mary’s appreciation for education and the arts led her to support a variety of organizations from National Geographic to Public Radio throughout her life.

May Mary now enjoy her vision of life as it should be as she joins the universe/heavens.

Private services were held.
Condolences may be sent online at ww.Washburn-McReavy.com