Denyce Bigelow

Denyce was known by those around her as a strong and caring mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She peacefully passed away, surrounded by loved ones, on the morning of September 14, 2026, at Pioneer Care in Fergus Falls. She was 83 years old.

Denyce lived a vibrant life, spending her days raising pigs, tending to her blooming gladiolas, fishing in Reed Creek, and enjoying time on the farm with her dogs, cats, birds, and squirrels. Many remember her for her cooking and baking, especially her buns, prime rib, potato salad, and her unique creation, Banoodles. Denyce was known for her quick-witted jokes, sassy responses, and Virginia Slims. She was extremely hardworking and fiercely strong-willed. Though small in stature, she inspired everyone around her by never letting her size stop her from doing what she wanted-even hauling hundreds of pounds of ground corn to the barn during a blizzard for her pigs.

She was a dedicated member of Central Lutheran Church, where she shared her faith as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher. Her passion for helping others led her to volunteer in the Fergus area, teaching English to Laotian families and assisting them in finding a place within the community.

Anyone who knew Denyce was aware of her love for island life. She often reminisced about the sea, the sun, and her days living on Pohnpei, where she worked as a hotel manager. She had countless stories from her time there, including one about heading straight into the jungle to track down employees who hadn't shown up for their shifts.

Denyce LaVonne Bigelow was born in Fergus Falls on September 26, 1942, the daughter of Floyd and Delaine "Jenne" Neubauer. She grew up on a farm in Maplewood State Park. She is preceded in death by her parents; her infant daughter, Brenda Seversen; her brother, Todd Neubauer; and her beloved dogs, Cricket and Puppy. She is survived by her children Steve (Cindy) Bigelow, Jeff (Sue) Bigelow, Timothy (Jennifer) Bigelow, and Jason (Heather) Bigelow; her grandchildren Katie (Adam) Baez, Jacob (Janie) Bigelow, Jordan (Em) Bigelow, Chris (Keren) Bigelow, Elizabeth Bigelow, Ella Bigelow, Tia Bigelow, Prentice (Sarah) Bigelow, Zebulon Bigelow, Chloe Bigelow, Kyler (Carlee) McKee, Ethan (Serena) Heinen, and Brady Heinen; and her great-grandchildren Gavin, Reese, Charlotte, Hazel, Noah, and Arlo Bigelow, as well as Mara and Ember Heinen.

Denyce was deeply loved by those around her and will be cherished in our hearts. She leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, strong opinions, good food, and memories that we will treasure forever. We like to think she is now somewhere sunny, surrounded by flowers, animals, and babies, giving everyone upstairs a run for their money.

Until we meet again, Grandma. Save us a seat beside you... and maybe a plate of Banoodles.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 25, 2026 at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service.

Clergy: Reverend Phil Tobin

Interment: Trinity-Faith Cemetery, Fergus Falls, MN.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com