Ivan Nielsen, 82, of Owatonna, died Thursday, May 5, 2011 at Fairview Care Center, Dodge Center. Ivan was born November 29, 1928 in Owatonna the son of Louis I. and Maybelle (Schafer) Nielsen. He attended school in Owatonna graduating in 1947. Ivan farmed with his parents in Owatonna Township and was a lifelong grain and livestock farmer. Ivan was a lifelong member of United Methodist Church, active in rural youth and later the 'farm group' who gathered together for fellowship. He was also a lifelong member in the Steele County Farm Bureau and member of the Owatonna and Rochester Square dancing clubs achieving many master level dance degrees. He took great pride in vegetable and flower gardening and dabbled in other hobbies. Just recently, Ivan received the Century Farm Award. He is survived by his nieces, Nancy (and Terry) McCann of Kasson; Sally (and Duane) Wisroth of Torrington; nephews, Robert (and Sue) Rhodes of Owatonna; Mitchell S. (and Lynn) Rhodes of Owatonna; six grand nieces, three grand nephews and two great grand nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Louella Rhodes and brother-in-law, Scott Rhodes, a niece-in-law, Gloria Rhodes, his parents and step mother, Louise (Shimpach) Nielsen. Visitation will be at United Methodist Church on Monday from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 9, 2011 at 10:00 AM at United Methodist Church with Pastor Loren Olson officiating. Interment will be in the Owatonna Memorial Gardens in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to United Methodist Church, Fairview Care Center Bus Fund in Dodge Center or donor''s choice. Arrangements by Michaelson Funeral Home, Owatonna. Visitation: 05/09/2011 09:00 05/09/2011 10:00 Service: 05/09/2011 10:00