Arlene P. Nelson, 85, of Owatonna, died Wednesday, January 29, 2020, at New Richland Care Center. She was born March 12, 1934, in Faribault, the daughter of Edgar and Sarah (Richards) Sanborn. Arlene grew up in the Faribault and Owatonna area. Arlene graduated from Kenyon High School in 1952. She met the love of her life, Robert "Bob" H. Nelson, at a young age while attending school in Owatonna and they continued to court each other over the years attending many outdoor movies. On September 4, 1952, they were united in marriage at St. John Lutheran Church in Owatonna. They enjoyed square dancing, camping and traveling everywhere together with their dog, Sammy who they had for 18 years. She worked at Jostens, Owatonna Hospital and Truth Hardware where she retired after 25 years. Arlene had a big heart and loved her family, kids and grandchildren. She believed that giving was important and would share with anyone who needed it. She was a proud author and wrote the book "Crackers and Milk". Arlene was a seamstress and was most known for her Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. She also enjoyed other sewing projects including bridal gowns, curtains and quilts. She spent time gardening especially flowers and being outdoors on her deck watching the birds and butterflies. Arlene was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was also on the altar guild and banner committee. Arlene lived by the motto: "If they breathe, they live. If they live, they think. If they think, they feel. Just like you and me" Anthony Douglas Williams. She is survived by her husband, Robert Nelson of Owatonna; children, Pamela (and Mike) Coolidge of Elk River, Douglas Nelson of Red Wing, Patty (and Clark) Velzke of Medford and Paul (and Shelly) Nelson of Owatonna; grandchildren, Jason, Jeremy, Maria, Krystyna, Erica, Christopher, Caty, Natalie, Spencer, Lexi and Lydia; 14 great-grandchildren; brother, James Sanborn of Granite Falls; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Paul and Eugene Sanborn; and sister, Shirley Lee. Visitation will be at St. John Lutheran Church on Saturday from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral service will be held February 1, 2020, at 11:00 AM at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor Dave Klawiter officiating. Interment will be at a later date in the St. John Cemetery in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to the church or donor's choice