After retiring this past year, Fred Nelson ’65 and his wife, Barb (Erickson) Nelson ’65 decided to return to Lindsborg, a place that has always been home even when they haven’t had a permanent address in town.
Barb, a retired educator, grew up in Lindsborg. Her dad owned a service station, which is now the Hemslojd, and she still has ownership of her parent’s home. Fred, a retired Lutheran Pastor, also has family ties to Lindsborg – his grandfather built the Swedish Country Inn.
Their connections to Bethany are also extensive. Barb played in the orchestra for the Messiah performances beginning as a sophomore in high school through her senior year of college. Fred also sang in the Messiah during college. Both will return to the stage this year, the first time since 1965.
Fred served on the board of directors from 1990-1994 and now, the couple serves on the Pearson Chapel and Welcome Center Committee. As they recalled, “when we were in college, chapel was in Old Main at the center of campus and it was mandatory. It was an opportunity to meet up with friends.” Their service to the new chapel comes from a feeling that chapel should always be a central place on campus. “We have always loved Bethany and while we were students, chapel was a major part of our week,” the couple said.
The Nelsons will remain in Lindsborg until after the Messiah Festival.
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