Sally Ann Nowling

Sally Nowling passed away on August 9, 2012 at her home in Pine City, MN surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren. She died from complications of cancer which she kept at bay for 27 years. Sally Ann Nowling was born on May 3, 1944 in Pine City, MN to Elton and Lillian Johnson, the second of four children. She attended rural country schools at Rock Creek for 2 years and District 28 in Pine City through 8th grade. Sally graduated from Pine City High School. During her first 17 years of life she was actively involved in the family’s dairy farm including threshing, putting up hay and milking cows. After graduation Sally worked at Western Union in Minneapolis, at the Pine City Feed Mill, at the Pine City Post Office and retired as Postmaster of the Hinckley Post Office with 31 years with the US Post Office. She then enjoyed working part-time first tending bar at 5th Street Bar and Grill and next waitressing at Pizza Hut in Pine City, which she enjoyed very much. In 1979 Sally and her husband Vern owned and ran the Inn Towne Tap in Pine City for 14 years. Sally married Lavern Nowling July 1962. They were blessed with three children, Scott, Randy and Audra. Sally is survived by Daughter and Son-in-law: Audra and Allen Nelson; Sons and Daughter-in-law: Scott and Kim Nowling and Randy Nowling; Grandchildren: Steven Nowling and friend Brittany and Kara Nowling; Sister and Brother-in-law: Donna and Helmuth Albrecht; Brothers and Sister-in-law: Roger Johnson and Steven and Renee Johnson; and many nieces, nephews and other family members. Sally was preceded in death by her husband, Lavern of 35 years, mother, Lillian and father, Elton. Sally enjoyed life and loved being with people. She valued her many friends. Sally was active in Lions having achieved becoming a Melvin Jones Fellow in 2006. Sally loved gardening as evidenced by her well-kept yard with lots of flowers. She was an avid crocheter with many afghans to her credit. Sally was active in the Zion Lutheran Church of Pine City where she was baptized, confirmed and married. Most recently she served for many years as secretary of the church council. Her faith was evident in her life and everyday actions—a strong Christian. Sally also enjoyed gambling at the Hinckley Casino with friends. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, August 14th at 11 am at Zion Lutheran Church in Pine City. Visitation with the family will be 2 hours prior to the funeral service at 9:00 am. Reverend Glen Kleppe will officiate. Burial will be at the Birchwood Cemetery in Pine City. Arrangements for Sally Nowling are with the Funeral and Cremation Service – Swanson Chapel of Pine City.