Beverly Ann Flugge

Beverly Ann Flugge age 93 of Elma, IA died Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Regional Health Howard County in Cresco, IA.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 31, 2024, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Elma with Rev. Bruce Miller officiating. Inurnment will be held in Howard Cemetery, Elma.

Friends may greet the family from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the Memorial Service at the church on Saturday.

Beverly Flugge passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024, at the age of 93 in Cresco, Iowa. Born on March 22, 1931, in Dexter, Minnesota, Beverly’s zest for life and her commitment to community left a mark on all who knew her.

Growing up in Elma, Beverly was a spirited and enthusiastic student who graduated from Elma High School in 1949. She shone brightly on the basketball court, where her passion and teamwork were evident. It was in her beloved hometown that Beverly’s heart was captivated by a local boy, Marvin Nielsen. Their romance blossomed, leading to marriage on April 19, 1952, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Elma, where Beverly would remain a steadfast member throughout her life.

The early years of Beverly and Marvin’s union were spent in San Francisco, California, where Marvin served in the United States Army. The couple eventually returned to their roots, making their home on an idyllic acreage north of Elma. There, Beverly dedicated herself to raising their children, tending to a bountiful garden, and preserving the fruits of her labor through canning—a testament to her nurturing spirit.

For over five decades, Beverly’s acreage was her sanctuary, a “little slice of heaven” where she cultivated not only her garden but also a warm, welcoming space for family and friends. Her hands, ever busy, worked magic in crocheting, creating intricate works of art that were as generous in spirit as they were in beauty. Beverly also enjoyed working on puzzles and playing card games during her free time. 

Beverly’s generosity extended far beyond her crafts. She was a pillar of support for mission families and a fervent advocate for Mission Central. Her dedication to service shone through her active involvement in St. Peter Lutheran Church, where she held officer positions in numerous organizations. Her commitment to her faith was unshakeable, and her presence in her special pew was a constant, a reflection of her devotion.

Beyond her local community, Beverly’s adventurous spirit took her around the globe. As part of the Lutheran tour group, she marveled at the world’s wonders, embracing new cultures and experiences with the same enthusiasm she brought to every aspect of her life.

Beverly will be remembered as a faith-filled, selfless, and generous soul, whose legacy is one of love, service, and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Her life was a testament to the power of community, the strength of faith, and the boundless capacity for giving. As we bid farewell to Beverly Flugge, we carry forward the light she so freely shared with the world.

Beverly is survived by two sons James (Jianqin) Nielsen of Sugar Land, TX, Peder (PegR) Nielsen of Gilbert, AZ; two daughters, Kathy (Bob) McIntyre of Cresco, IA, and Pat Mitchell of Elma, IA; nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granchild; one sister, Deloris Halweg of Hawkeye, IA; two sisters-in-law, Lois Kirchner of Jefferson, WI, and Margie Kirchner of Albert Lea, MN. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Marvin Nielsen, and Don Flugge; one son, Ron Nielsen; one grandson, Jade Komarek; two brothers, Marvin Kirchner, and Duwayne Kirchner; one sister, Mary (Roland) Thies.