Anita Louise Nelsen, age 78, of Byron, MN, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, at Fairview Care Center in Dodge Center, MN. She was born on July 18, 1946, in Rochester, MN, to Lawrence and Arlene (Petersen) Larsen.

Anita graduated from Byron High School and dedicated her career to accounting, working for Midwest Fuels until her retirement in 2014. In 1965, she married Vernon Nelsen, and together they had three children, Diane, Michelle and Brian. Anita loved to travel and could often be found enjoying scenic drives. An avid reader and music lover, she shared her musical talents by playing the organ and piano at her church, where she was actively involved. Anita also served her community as a former mayor of Byron. Anita was a member of the Byron United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her children, Diane (Chad) Squires, Michelle (James Coll) Nelsen, Brian (Karen Nehring) Nelsen; grandson, Stephen Squires; siblings, Paul Larsen, Barb (Ed) Kuhlman, Jerry Larsen, David Larsen, John (Robin) Larsen, Janice (Dave) Brooks and numerous nieces and nephews. Anita was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon; grandchildren, Stephanie Leaman and Nicole Christian and by her siblings, Larry, Pete and Bob Larsen.

Visitation will be held 1:00-4:00 p.m. Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Byron Funeral Home, 1620 Voll Drive NW, Byron, MN 55920. Burial will be at the Byron Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Byron Cemetery or to the Byron United Methodist Church. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.byronfuneralhome.com