Joyce Elaine (Archer) Nielsen of Edina, MN passed away at the age of 98 on September 9, 2025.  She was born on August 22, 1927 in Finley, ND to Ralph and Ida (Madsen) Archer.  Predeceased by beloved husband of 52 years Fred, precious daughter Karen, sisters Delores (Bev) Byer and Geraldine (Donald) Peterson, brothers Ralph (Connie), and Lyle (Sybil). Survived by her son Craig (Kris), daughter Terri (Tom) Berry, grandchildren Carolyn (Chris) Testa, Diana (Scott) Gilbert, Mark Berry, Noelle (Royce) Iwansky, Madeleine Nielsen, and great granddaughters, Sienna & Corrine Testa, and Sage & Reign Gilbert.  

Joyce graduated from the University of North Dakota College of Science, Literature, and Arts in 1949, before she began teaching home economics in Lakota, ND.  Following that, she went to work at the Betty Crocker Test Kitchens in Minneapolis until becoming a full time homemaker. 

Joyce loved spending time at the Wisconsin lake cabin she and Fred purchased in 1964. During the first few years there, she spent entire summers with her children while Fred commuted back and forth on weekends. Many wonderful family memories were made fishing, water skiing, pontooning, and spending time with friends and neighbors.  As she often said “It’s always a good day when you’re at the lake”. 

Joyce’s family want to express their appreciation to the caring staff at St. Therese at St. Odilia Hospice for their compassionate care during her final month in this life. 

Her memorial service will be at Normandale Hylands United Methodist Church, 9920 Normandale Blvd, Bloomington, MN 55437 on September 26th, at 11 AM.  Visitation and lunch to follow the service.  Memorials preferred to either Normandale Hylands United Methodist Church or St. Therese at St. Odilia Hospice.