Eileen E. Grant

Eileen Esther Nielsen Grant died on July 11, 2025, age 92, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. She was born November 26, 1932 in Elmore, Minnesota to Carl and Martha Nielsen. 

She attended country school 2 miles south of Ringsted, Iowa until she was in the 7th grade. She then attended Seneca High School, where she graduated in 1953. She earned her Elementary Teaching degree from Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa. During her Waldorf years, she met her future husband, Ordean Grant. Following graduation, she taught 2 years in Titonka, Iowa. Eileen and Ordean were married June 24, 1955. They farmed for 12 years near Corning, Minnesota. 

During their farming years, Ordean returned to college to become a pastor. While they lived in Nebraska, she worked for the Beatrice State Home for individuals who are developmentally disabled. She also did numerous substitute teacher jobs in Gaylord, Minnesota and Alma, Wisconsin. In her churches, she was a Confirmation, Sunday School, and Vacation Bible School teacher.

She had a great love for the piano and served her church and schools in various programs. She enjoyed spending time with her family, camping trips, puzzles, stitching/embroidery, baking, reading, and winters in Arizona. 

She is survived by her children Kathleen (Kevin) Olson, Marleen Clark, Dean (Cindy) Grant, Jon (Sheila) Grant, grandchildren ReyLynn (Albert) Salazar, Emily (Ryan) Kite, Josiah (Kari) Olson, Mark (Hollie) Grant, Kristen (Josh) Wallace, Sarah (Taylor) Mugge, Kayla (Evan) James, Hannah (Austin) King, Chandler Grant, and siblings Dorothy Allen, Margaret Rude, Don Nielsen, and 14 great grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her parents Carl and Martha, husband Ordean, brothers Roger and Richard, brother-in-law Lauren and wife Orlie, and son-in-law Roger Clark. 

Funeral service for Eileen will take place at 11 am on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church 30456 Mower Freeborn Road, Austin, MN 55912 with Pastor Leandra Anderson officiating.  Visitation will take place that day at the church from 10 AM until the time of the service.  Burial will take place in the church cemetery immediately following the service. A luncheon will take place at the church following the service.   

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements. 

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