Sheri Nelson of Lonsdale, MN passed away on the evening of May 18th, 2026 with family at her bedside.
Sheri was born on April 29th, 1961 to Jerome and Karen Leffler in Minneapolis, MN. She grew up in Edina and Richfield, MN with her sister and two brothers. In 1987, she met Darwin Nelson, the soon to be love of her life. They dated for 8 years before getting married in 1996 and went on to have two daughters, Nicole and Piper.
She had many career interests throughout the years, including art and fashion and ultimately found herself in the world of IT. Sheri spent much of her free time tending to her flowers, playing with her dogs, finding good sales, and having a laugh with family. When she was not crafting a gag gift or creating a new recipe in the late night hours (which she would never write down), you could find her seated near a slot machine at the casino or having a drink with friends. Boring and ordinary were not words that could be used to describe her. The stories about this woman could fill a book, or rather a whole series.
She had a big heart and cared deeply for those she loved. She has left an enormous hole in our lives with her passing and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Sheri was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry and Karen Leffler; brother, Danny Leffler; aunts, Audrey Broman, Betty Henry, and Connie Whipps; uncle, Chuck Leffler.
She is survived by her husband, Darwin Nelson; daughters, Nicole and Piper Nelson; brother, David (Becky) Leffler; sister, Cindy Leffler; niece, Abbey Okeson; nephews, Danny and John Leffler; aunts, Aleah Haugen and Linda Leffler; uncle, John (Jan) Leffler
Words can’t describe how thankful and grateful I feel to have known this amazing woman. She brought the party to every gathering and turned the average day into unforgettable memories. To say she lived life to the fullest is an understatement. I hope you know how much I love you. I will never forget the endless hours of shenanigans and belly laughs. We were friends before marriage and children, and I’ll never forget how much you did For your family and those that you loved. Until we meet again. Becky
I’m so sorry for your loss! Sheri was great to work with at HealthPartners! I was a new employee, but Sheri clearly explained the new system or equipment, and made it fun and understandable. She was a joy to work with!
And her adventures from the past that she shared when our team went out for a work lunch had everyone in stitches!
Sheri was not only committed to her work, which she did with excellence, but she was a genuine person, caring about others, and we treasured her!
May you know the comfort of the Good Shepherd in this hard loss. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me… and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (from Psalm 23)
My deepest condolences. I did not know her that well but when she hosted gatherings she was always so gracious, kind and happy. A joy to have met! Prayers for the family during this very difficult time.