Mike Nielsen left to be with the Lord after a long battle with cancer on February 9, 2011. Mike was born on September 18, 1965, in Huron, SD, to Marvin and Delores (Ames) Nielsen. He grew up on the family dairy farm northwest of St. Lawrence, and he graduated from high school in Miller, SD, in 1983. Mike moved to Custer in 1984 where he met Bonnie (Kenefick). They were married September 22, 1990.

Mike experienced an abundance of life through hard work and dedication. In his 45 short years he was a very successful husband, dad, friend, and business man.

Mike was proceeded in death his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and several cousins.

Mike is survived by his wife Bonnie and their children Lauren (Shem) Sigafoos of Hot Springs, Justin Nielsen of Custer, and Caitlan Nielsen of Custer; his parents Marvin and Delores Nielsen of Custer; his brothers Pat Nielsen of Custer, Mark (Kim) Nielsen of Custer; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 11, 2011 at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Custer.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, February 12, 2011, at Custer Lutheran Fellowship Church with Pastor Neil Hughes, Pastor Don Hartley and Pastor Tom Opoien officiating. Interment will follow at the Custer Cemetery.

Memorial fund given to Compassionate Care Hospice, 602 Mt Rushmore Rd. Suite 2, Custer, SD 57730.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Custer. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.