Julieta Dela Cruz Nelson, 84, of Middle River, MN formerly of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at her home with her loving family by her side.

A private Celebration of Life Service will be held by her family.  She will later be interred in the Philippines.

Julieta Dela Cruz was born March 6, 1940 in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines the daughter of Melecio and Dominga (Satur) Dela Cruz.  She attended grade school and graduated high school in the Philippines.  Following high school Julieta graduated from a trade school with a beautician certificate.

In 1976 Julieta met Terry Nelson while he was deployed in the Philippines with the United States Navy.  The couple moved to the United States and made their home in different places.  Julieta worked on the various military bases at the Exchanges.  She also worked many side jobs as a baker, seamstress, and beautician.

In 1993 Julieta and Terry settled in Middle River, MN, following Terry's discharge from the U.S. Navy.  They raised their daughters in Middle River.  Their other three daughters later followed them from the Philippines to the United States.  They family grew to include 13 wonderful grandchildren and 12 special great-grandchildren.

While living in Minnesota Julieta was employed as a seamstress at Arctic Cat for many years until her retirement.

Julieta enjoyed cooking, making porcelain dolls, and gardening.

Julieta is survived by her husband, Terry; children, Jocelyn (Mark) Plouffe, Jean (Cezar Jr.) Zurita, Javilita (Timoteo) Moreno, Jasmin (Robert) Wollrath, and Joy Genereux; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.

Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com