Leatrice Joy Nelson-Bolsinger

Leatrice Joy Bolsinger, 89, passed away on March 21, 2026. She was born on June 30, 1936, in Trempealeau, Wisconsin, and was raised on a farm there. She was the youngest daughter, and she and her sisters were lovingly known as the “Nelson sisters.”

Lea (Joy) was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She had a deep love for her family and found so much happiness in caring for her children, taking them on long summer walks, and simply being together. Her faith in Jesus guided her life. In her early years, she taught catechism, and throughout her life she faithfully prayed for her children and those she loved.

Later on, Lea (Joy) became an active member of Rangerville Baptist Church in San Benito, Texas. She had a heart for helping others and spent time serving at Loaves and Fishes and the church food shelf—something that meant a great deal to her, especially in her later years.

After her husband RJ passed away, Lea (Joy) split her time between her home in Texas and The Lodge of White Bear Lake Senior Community. No matter where she was, she continued caring for others, often asking how she could pray for them. Everyone at The Lodge knew her simply as “Joy,” and she truly lived up to that name.

She loved traveling—first with RJ on many RV adventures, and later with her daughters. She and RJ were known for dancing the Texas Two-Step and could often be found dancing the night away. She also loved to sing and was part of the Sweet Adelines, sharing her beautiful voice with others.

Lea (Joy) enjoyed music, especially Alan Jackson and Daniel O’Donnell, and she was thrilled to attend one of his concerts. She also loved playing bingo with friends and rarely missed a game.

Her great-grandchildren called her “Fancy Grandma,” a name that fit her perfectly. She adored her grandchildren deeply and cherished every moment spent with them. She always looked her best, with her nails and makeup done and her outfits sparkling—just like her personality.

Lea (Joy) is survived by her children: Mike Glenzinski (Kathy Miller), Cindy (Rod) Fillmore, Dennis (Judy) Glenzinski, Kevin Glenzinski, and Sheri (Todd) Rosencrantz; her stepchildren, Bonnie (Herb) Steeb and Randy Bolsinger and; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, RJ Bolsinger, and her daughter, Mary Nelson.

Lea (Joy) will be remembered for her kindness, her strong faith, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. She will be deeply missed.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the River of God Church in North St. Paul, MN. Visitation will be held at the church on Thursday morning for one hour prior to services. Interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements are being completed by the Parker Kohl Funeral Home & Crematory of Faribault, MN.