Susan Nagel

Susan Jensen Nagel joined her heavenly home on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 after a lengthy illness.

She was born on December 5th, 1954 at Nave Hospital in Albert Lea, MN to Ellsworth and Joyce Jensen. Susan and her two older brothers were born grandchildren to original Danish immigrants.

She grew up in southeastern Minnesota in the communities of Albert Lea, Wabasha, Stewartville, and St. Charles. A graduate of St. Charles High School, she went on to a year of Bible college in West Virginia and then pursued psychological studies at both Winona State University and St. Mary's University. In 1977, she met and married David Nagel from Greenleafton, MN. Two children were born from this union; (Caleb) Andrew Nagel and Kimberly Anne (Nagel) Heins.

Susan saw her life as one of an educator. She began her career as an early-childhood educator and spent many years as a consultant for the Rochester Public Schools. Most recently, she was working as an early childhood consultant for the Center of Inclusive Childcare. Her love of children was a lifelong theme and source of great joy.

Susan knew Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and served Him faithfully. She enjoyed teaching women's Bible studies, studying theology, Near-Eastern classical studies (Judaism) and jigsaw puzzles. She also enjoyed researching family genealogy and Minnesota history. She especially enjoyed Mississippi River lore. She loved her family and decorating her house and spending time with family during the holidays. Above everything else in her life, she enjoyed being a mother and a grandmother. Her special delight was baking with her granddaughter Abby and passing down Scandinavian recipes.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ellsworth and Joyce, her brother Joel Jensen, and a child lost to miscarriage. She is survived by her children, Andrew and Kim, her beloved granddaughter Abigail Evelyn Heins, brother Tom (Linda) Jensen of Lewisville, TX, and good friend Ted Craig. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved very much.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 9, 2023 at 11 AM at Redeemer Lutheran Church (869 7th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904). A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations to cover funeral expenses are appreciated.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Nagel family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.