Mike Nielsen, age 82, of Mapleton, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the UnityPoint-Health St. Luke’s Hospital in Sioux City, Iowa.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, 2025, with a visitation held prior from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mapleton, IA. Father William A. McCarthy will officiate. Committal services will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Mapleton, IA.
The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
Michael Duane “Mike” Nielsen, son of Mike L. and Rose A. (Petrositch) Nielsen, was born on June 16, 1942, on the family farm in rural Mapleton, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed in his faith at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mapleton, where he remained a lifelong member.
Mike grew up on the family farm north of Mapleton and graduated with the Class of 1960 from Maple Valley High School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard. He served honorably as a Staff Sergeant (E6) with Company C, 2nd Battalion (Mechanized), 133rd Infantry Regiment from January 4, 1960, to January 3, 1968. During his military service, he earned the designation of Sharpshooter and was known for his dedication, discipline, and leadership.
Upon completing his service, Mike returned to Mapleton and began a lifelong career rooted in his love for the land. He was a devoted farmer who raised livestock and embraced the values of hard work, self-reliance, and craftsmanship. Whether turning the earth, tending animals, or making repairs, Mike never shied away from a long day’s labor—up before sunrise and working late into the evening.
On October 22, 1966, Mike married the love of his life, Shirlene Ann Blohm, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mapleton. Together, they made a home filled with love, laughter, and strong values, raising three children: Richard, Jolene, and Carla.
Mike had a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, splitting wood, and the hum of a well-tuned tractor. A natural mechanic, he could fix nearly anything and often lent a helping hand to neighbors and friends. He especially enjoyed tinkering on cars—particularly a roaring ‘60s Chevy. Many days, you could find him enjoying coffee and conversation at the Beef N Brew in Mapleton at lunch. He also liked quick trips to the casino and lively card games, always ready to serve as the scorekeeper.
Mike’s legacy lives on through his children: Richard Nielsen of Sioux Falls, SD; Jolene (Glenn) Pudenz of Fort Worth, TX; and Carla (Tony) Braunger of Sioux City, IA; his grandchildren: Sheena (Andy) Ladwig of Arnolds Park, IA, Shelby (Matt) Chapman of Spencer, IA, Kyle Pudenz of Blue Springs, MO, Stuart Pudenz of Dallas, TX, Bailey (Gabbie) McBride of McKinney, TX, and Caleb Braunger of Lincoln, NE; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Evelyn Cameron of Tupelo, MS, as well as extended family and many cherished friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirlene Nielsen; his grandson, Alex Pudenz; and several brothers, sisters, relatives, and close friends.
Mike will be remembered for his strong spirit and unwavering commitment to family, friends and hard work.
Previous Events
Visitation
17
Jun
201 N 8th Street
Mapleton, IA 51034
Mass of Christian Burial
17
Jun
201 N 8th Street
Mapleton, IA 51034
