We offer traditional burial and cremation services (on-site crematory) to families of all faiths and
03/11/2026
Funeral directors are often unsung heroes, working quietly with compassion, professionalism, and grace to ensure every detail of caring for loved ones and arranging meaningful services is handled with dignity. Their work allows families to focus on healing during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Today, we honor their steadfast dedication to supporting both those who have passed and the loved ones who grieve them. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the care and comfort they provide so many. Thank you for all that you do.
02/14/2026
Today may feel especially heavy as you remember someone you love. Please give yourself the space to honor their memory and to care for your own heart. Love continues to live on in those who carry it.
02/07/2026
View John Joseph Obowa's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.
02/02/2026
February is National Cancer Prevention Month—a time to focus on early detection, healthy choices, and supporting those impacted by cancer. Let’s work together to raise awareness and build a healthier future.
02/01/2026
Throughout February, we observe Black History Month by reflecting on the remarkable contributions, perseverance, and leadership of Black individuals throughout history and today.
01/19/2026
On MLK Day, we remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s call to build a more just and connected world. Let’s honor his legacy by serving our communities, lifting one another up, and turning his vision into everyday action.
12/31/2025
As we say goodbye to 2025, we reflect on the moments that shaped this year and look ahead with hope and excitement for what’s to come. Here’s to new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and making memories in 2026. Happy New Year!
12/25/2025
Merry Christmas! Whether you’re busy celebrating with family and friends or quietly reflecting on cherished memories of those who are no longer with us, we wish you peace and love this holiday season.
12/21/2025
Winter is here! As the shortest day of the year, it’s the perfect time to embrace cozy nights, warm drinks, and the beauty of the season. Here’s to finding joy in winter’s quiet magic.
View Thomas Warga's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.
12/03/2025
This video featuring Dr. Alan Wolfelt offers compassionate guidance on supporting friends and family who are grieving during the holiday season. It’s a great resource to watch personally or to share with someone who may appreciate the insight and comfort.
This video with Dr. Alan Wolfelt explores how to be support your friends and family who are grieving during the holiday season.
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Glende-Nilson Funeral Home & Cremation Service posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Contact The Practice
Send a message to Glende-Nilson Funeral Home & Cremation Service:
The Glende-Johnson-Nelson-Nilson Funeral Homes have served the families of our communities with caring and compassion for over 50 years.
Evan Glende, lifelong resident of the Fergus Falls area, together with Sam Miller, built the present facility in 1950 called the Glende-Miller Funeral Home. Years later, Adolph Johnson joined the firm and the name Glende-Johnson Funeral Home was adopted.
In 1969, Doug Nelson joined the firm and in 1995, Glende-Johnson-Nelson Funeral Home partnered with Bruce Nilson, who owned and operated the Nilson Funeral Homes of Fergus Falls, Battle Lake, Ashby, and Evansville. Today, the firm is staffed by five full time funeral directors: Rick Mekalson, Chris Carlson, Andrew Yaggie, Luke Johnson, and Michael McIlheran, with continued assistance by Bruce Nilson and Doug Nelson.
After nearly 50 years of operation in the same facility, the Glende-Nilson Funeral Home & Cremation Service held an open house on Thursday, July 11, 2002 to celebrate a major renovation and expansion. As part of the remodeling, a state-of-the-art 4,200 square foot addition was constructed in what was the original funeral home parking lot. Among many other things, the renovation included the addition of a brand new chapel and crematory.
The new addition houses a beautifully appointed lobby, handicapped accessible restrooms, and a new chapel with seating for up to 200 people. The 700 square foot addition extending the length of the garage, houses a crematory and provides an outside seating area next to the beautiful Otter Tail River and Veterans Park. The original building was also completely renovated to include an expanded display room, a kitchenette, children’s room, and a multipurpose room. New staff offices and an updated preparation room complete the nearly 10,000 square foot facility.
Recognizing the changing desires of families we are called upon to serve, further renovations in 2014 led to the creation of our “Life Event Center”. Providing true flexibility, our Life Event Center is used largely as a lunch or reception area, with the ability to seat up to 100 guests. It also provides flexibility for more informal gatherings, can be used as a second chapel, and is a great venue for educational seminars. State of the art video and audio enhancements complete the renovations.
We invite you and your family stop by and tour our beautiful facilities.
