Elizabeth Kay (Hrdlicka) Nelson, 63

Elizabeth Kay (Hrdlicka) Nelson, age 63 of Waterville, passed away Friday, February 10, 2023, at Methodist Hospital, Rochester, MN.

Beth, one of six girls, was born to John and Geraldine (Biggins)  Hrdlicka on January 22, 1960, in Faribault, MN. She went to Waterville-Elysian School and graduated in 1978. She continued her education at Mankato State University and received her associate degree. She worked many jobs over the years but most notably with The State of Minnesota Regional Center and driving numerous trucks with her late husband Warren’s trucking company. Most recently, she loved her jobs driving Zamboni for the Graham Arena in Rochester and Braemar Arena in Edina. 

Beth was a natural born singer and memorably starred as “Dolly” in her high school play “Hello, Dolly.” She loved to play piano. She belonged outdoors, where she could hunt for mushrooms or stick her toes in the mud while fishing. Her hobbies included Judge Judy, Mystic Lake, gardening and thrifting. Her favorite time spent was with her grandkids. 

Beth is preceded in death by her second husband Warren and her parents John and Geraldine. 

Beth is survived by her first husband, James S. Duffner; children, James R. Duffner and Jillian (Justin) Stam; four grandchildren, Sebastien Duffner, Evelyn Duffner, Teigan Stam and Fredrick Stam; five sisters, Nancy (Ray) Miller, Peggy Jewison, Jayne Wohl, Mary Miller and Maureen Cerwinske; many nieces and nephews.   

A Celebration of Life open house will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023, from 1-4 p.m. at the Waterville Event Center.