Honoring Nancy: A Memorial at the Landscape Arboretum

 I am Nancy’s granddaughter, Makaylah and together with our family, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to honor her life and legacy. Our beloved Nancy was a wisdom keeper, a mentor, and a friend to all—offering love, guidance, and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Since she does not have a physical gravesite, we are creating a space where those who love her can visit, reflect, and feel her presence in nature’s embrace.

To honor her legacy—and in celebration of her birthday—we are raising funds for a memorial at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This serene and beautiful setting reflects everything Nancy loved: the quiet of a garden, the joy of birdsong, and the wonder of nature.

Nancy found deep joy in being outdoors. She loved tending to her garden, capturing the beauty of the world through photography, and especially watching birds—finding meaning and magic in their presence.

We are currently raising funds for one of three memorial gift options:

• Commemorative Brick ($1,000): An engraved message placed along the Arboretum’s walkways.

• Memorial Tree ($5,000–$10,000): A living tribute rooted in the soil she so loved.

• Memorial Bench ($15,000–$25,000): Our stretch goal—a peaceful place to sit, reflect, and feel close to her spirit.

If you prefer to donate by mail, 

contributions can be sent directly to the Arboretum at: 

 Tributes – Minnesota Landscape Arboretum PO Box 860647 Minneapolis, MN 55486-0647

Please include a note specifying that the donation is for or in memory of Nancy Uden, so it can be added to her tribute fund.

This GoFundMe will remain open until we reach our goal for one of these gifts. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to celebrating Nancy’s life in this meaningful way.

In addition, Nancy’s legacy lives on through the My Children’s Caretaker Scholarship at her alma mater, Metropolitan State University. This fund supports student parents, honoring Nancy’s deep commitment to education, family, and the power of caretaking.

Donations for the scholarship fund can be made here: https://www.metrostate.edu/give/give-now

Thank you for helping us celebrate Nancy’s life, spirit, and birthday in such a meaningful way. Her love for nature, learning, and family continues to grow through your support.

With love and gratitude,

Makaylah & Family