Elinor Nielsen Greenfield

Elinor Nielsen Greenfield



September 24, 1934 – September 14, 2021



Elinor Nielsen Greenfield was born on September 24, 1934 to Einar and Mary Nielsen in McCook, Nebraska. She was the oldest daughter of their six children. Elinor was active in band, debate, journalism and pep club throughout her years in school.



An avid reader who loved learning, Elinor left Nebraska for the University of Georgia where she received her bachelor’s in education. She continued her education graduating with a master’s in library science from the University of Montana.



Always seeing the value in personal growth and expanding horizons, Elinor explored many professions throughout her life. Starting out as an elementary teacher Elinor moved her way through the education system as a teacher, librarian and principal. Elinor even dabbled in entrepreneurship, owning her own bookstore in Dubuque, Iowa. After moving to Omaha to be closer to family, Elinor armed herself for her greatest challenge yet. She became a licensed stockbroker, a heavily male-dominated occupation, that piqued her interest for nearly 30 years.



Beyond her career, Elinor loved staying active and social through golf and bridge – hosting many evenings with friends, clients and colleagues. She was an enthusiastic cook, loved a good glass of wine and had a passion for traveling.



Elinor was involved with many organizations, serving on boards and committees, including the Exchange Club of Omaha, Joslyn Museum, Sheldon Museum of Art, YMCA of Greater Omaha, Assistance League of Omaha, and many more. She was also an active member of All Saints Episcopal Church.



Above all, Elinor cherished her family. Her daughter, Joyceane, son-in-law, Shawn, and grandchildren, Breeane, Niel, Kealinn and Bridgit were her pride and joy. Every holiday season Elinor wrote a Christmas letter to family and friends summarizing the entire year of all eight family members; Fufu later Izzy, her beloved dogs, always included. Elinor loved long talks with her siblings and celebrating their Danish heritage.



Elinor passed her passion for exploring, stubbornness and energy on to her grandchildren. She has been greatly missed, but always lives on in our hearts.



Special thank you to St. Croix Hospice, especially Carrie, Betsy and Lindsey. We are forever grateful for the care and comfort you provided Elinor.



Survived by daughter, Joyceane (Shawn) Peterson; grandchildren, Breeane (Joe) Kotulak, Niel Peterson, Kealinn Peterson and Bridgit (David Meraz) Peterson; brothers Dale (Margaret) Nielsen, Paul (Nancy) Nielsen, Dan (Linda) Nielsen, and sisters Ane (David) Banwell and Karen (Randy) Martin.



Visitation on Monday, November 22 from 5-6:30 p.m. with a Celebration of Life at 6:30 p.m. at John A. Gentleman Mortuaries – 72nd Street Chapel. Private burial in Lexington, Nebraska.



In lieu of flowers, please bring a children’s book to the Visitation for donation in Elinor’s memory or gifts in Elinor’s memory can be made to the Sheldon Museum of Art in Lincoln, Nebraska.