Margaret Nerge

Margaret S. Nerge, age 90, died peacefully in her savior's arms Saturday September 11, 2010 at Autumn Grace in Mankato.

Memorial service will be held 9 a.m. Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at Christ The King Lutheran Church in Mankato. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday, September 13, 2010 at Mankato Mortuary. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lakefield or Autumn Grace in Mankato.

Margaret was born April 22, 1920 in Lakefield, MN to Lars and Sylvia Birkland. She was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lakefield. Margaret was united in marriage to Elmer Nerge on October 24, 1943. They had three children, James (Candace) of Verona, WI, Joanne (Daniel) of Mankato, MN and Donald (Teresa) of Eden Prairie, MN.

In the 1940's they moved to Mankato and established and operated the Evangel Book Store (originally known as the Cherry Book Store), a Christian book, gift, and church supply business. They operated the store for nearly 40 years until retirement in 1983. During this time they were active in many roles, first at Bethlehem Lutheran and then Christ the King Lutheran Churches in Mankato. Margaret was especially valued for her ability to teach classes of young people on the spur of the moment and was the "emergency Sunday School teacher" for many years. Margaret also served as librarian at her churches in Mankato and Lakefield, a role she dearly cherished.

After Elmer's death in 1983, Margaret eventually moved to a lake home near Lakefield, where she and her sisters were known for their hospitality and imaginative social gatherings. The lake home also became the beloved gathering place for her immediate and extended family.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, and three sisters. She is survived by her three children and spouses, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and her sister, Elaine Birkland of Lakefield.