our staff

For Mike Doran, funeral service has never been just a profession—it's been a way of life.

Born and raised in Brainerd, Mike grew up watching his father, Tom Doran, care for families with compassion, dignity, and respect. In 1960, Tom helped shape the future of funeral service in the Brainerd Lakes Area when he merged the family funeral home with another local provider to form what is known today as Nelson-Doran Funeral Home.

From an early age, Mike found himself drawn to the meaningful work taking place around him. Whether helping with small tasks at the funeral home or simply observing the relationships his father built within the community, he discovered a calling rooted in service and human connection.

After graduating from Brainerd High School, Mike attended the University of Minnesota's College of Mortuary Science, earning his degree in 1986. He returned home committed to continuing the legacy his family had helped establish—serving local families with the same care, professionalism, and compassion that had inspired him growing up.

Today, Mike and his wife, Wendy, make their home in Merrifield and are proud parents of two daughters, Megan and Abby. Their household is shared with several beloved pets who, according to family members, are perhaps a bit more spoiled than they should be.

When he's not at the funeral home, you'll often find Mike enjoying the outdoors, especially during Minnesota winters. A lifelong hockey enthusiast and former player, he now enjoys cheering on the Minnesota Wild with family and friends, proving that while the skates may be retired, the passion for the game remains strong.

Mike and his family are active members of St. Francis Catholic Church, and he continues to serve the community through his involvement with the Noon Rotary Club. Whether supporting local organizations, volunteering his time, or helping a family through one of life's most difficult moments, Mike remains deeply committed to the community that has always been home.

Known for his quick wit and remarkable ability to quote the perfect movie line for almost any occasion, Mike brings a welcome sense of warmth and humor to the funeral home. It's a combination of sincerity, experience, and genuine kindness that has earned the trust of generations of families throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.

For nearly four decades, Mike has carried forward a family legacy built on service, compassion, and community—helping families tell the stories of the people they love and creating meaningful ways to honor lives well lived.

For Rhonda Harting, funeral service is about one thing above all else: caring for people.

Although she joined Nelson-Doran Funeral Home in December 2019, Rhonda brings more than two decades of experience, leadership, and compassion to the families she serves. Her journey into funeral service began shortly after graduating from St. Cloud State University in 2001. By 2003, she had entered the profession and quickly discovered the meaningful difference funeral professionals can make during life's most difficult moments.

As her passion for serving families grew, Rhonda enrolled in the Mortuary Science Program at Des Moines Area Community College, further strengthening her knowledge and commitment to providing exceptional care. Over the years, she gained extensive experience helping families navigate loss, including 17 years managing another funeral home before joining the Nelson-Doran team.

Today, Rhonda is proud to help lead a funeral home with deep roots in the Brainerd Lakes Area—a community she knows, loves, and is honored to serve.

Away from the funeral home, Rhonda's greatest joy is her family. She and her husband, Jed, share a busy and laughter-filled household with their children: Rhett, Rhya, Lili, and Miranda. Whether cheering from the sidelines, enjoying Minnesota's outdoors, gathering around the dinner table, or simply spending time together, family remains at the center of everything she does.

Rhonda is passionate about building connections within the community and believes some of life's most meaningful moments happen when people come together to support one another. That belief guides her work every day as she helps families create services that reflect the unique lives, values, and stories of the people they love.

Her favorite quote—"In a world where you can be anything, be kind"—serves as both a personal philosophy and a professional guide. She understands that kindness often matters most when people are experiencing loss, uncertainty, and change.

Families who work with Rhonda quickly discover her ability to balance professionalism with genuine warmth. She is a listener, an advocate, a problem solver, and a steady source of support during difficult times. Whether helping a family plan a traditional funeral, a unique celebration of life, or simply answering questions during a challenging day, she believes every family deserves to be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Rhonda considers it a privilege to walk alongside families during some of life's most difficult moments, helping them find comfort, celebrate meaningful memories, and honor lives well lived. Every story matters, and she is honored to help families tell them.

Licensed Funeral Director

Kendal Tuomi brings a thoughtful mind, a calm presence, and a deeply compassionate heart to Nelson-Doran Funeral Home.

Originally from Faribault, Minnesota, Kendal graduated from Faribault High School in 2013 before attending the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she earned her degree in Biochemistry in 2017. Her interest in science, combined with a growing desire to help people in meaningful ways, eventually led her to the University of Minnesota’s Mortuary Science Program, where she graduated in 2019.

Since joining Nelson-Doran, Kendal has embraced both funeral service and the Brainerd Lakes Area with energy and heart. She is passionate about becoming involved in the community and is especially proud of her family’s support of Camp Confidence on Sylvan Lake, where they help raise awareness and funds for an organization that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Outside of work, Kendal and her husband are busy building their dream home and raising two young daughters—an adventure that keeps life full, lively, and wonderfully unpredictable. When she finds a quiet moment, Kendal enjoys spending time with loved ones, curling up with a good book, and tending to her garden, where she finds peace in nurturing something from the ground up.

Families who work with Kendal quickly appreciate her steady presence, attention to detail, and genuine care. Her background in science gives her a thoughtful and precise approach, while her empathy and warmth help families feel supported during some of life’s hardest moments.

Kendal considers it an honor to walk alongside families as they remember, celebrate, and tell the stories of the people they love.

When Brittany Beimert joined the Nelson – Doran team in August of 2022, her presence was immediately felt—not just through her efficiency and attention to detail, but through the warmth and calm she brings to every interaction. A self-proclaimed Home Edit enthusiast, Brittany has a gift for creating order and beauty in everything she touches. Whether she’s coordinating service details or helping a family work through complex paperwork during a time of loss, she approaches each task with care, compassion, and clarity.

Brittany plays a vital role behind the scenes, ensuring that every family receives timely answers, personalized attention, and seamless support. Her calm demeanor and commitment to serving others make her a steady, reassuring presence when people need it most.

Raised near Pillager, where she and her family now reside, Brittany finds deep meaning in staying close to her roots. She shares life with her partner, Anthony, and their two children, A’Mya and Kyran, who keep her days full of joy, adventure, and plenty of laughter. Family is at the center of everything she does, and she treasures time spent together—whether it's a quiet evening at home or a spontaneous outing with the kids.

Brittany is also passionate about clean living and holistic wellness. She loves diving into research on healthy lifestyle choices and is a proud Young Living representative, always eager to share what she’s learned with others looking to make small, meaningful changes in their everyday lives.

With a heart for service and a mind for organization, Brittany embodies both grace and grit—two qualities that make her such a valuable part of the Nelson – Doran family.

Emmy was born and raised right here in Brainerd, and her connection to this community runs deep. From a young age, she felt drawn to the funeral profession—not out of curiosity, but from a genuine desire to help others during times of grief and uncertainty. By the time she was just 15 years old, Emmy had already begun working at a local funeral home, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong vocation.

After graduating from high school, there was no hesitation—Emmy knew exactly what she wanted to do. She went on to earn her degree in Mortuary Science from Des Moines Area Community College, graduating in 2016 and officially beginning her journey as a licensed funeral director. She brings a quiet strength, empathy, and steady presence to her work—qualities that families recognize and deeply appreciate during their most difficult moments.

Emmy comes from a family that values community involvement, and she continues that tradition by dedicating time and support to Camp Confidence, a cause that holds a special place in her heart. Whether through volunteering or simply showing up to lend a helping hand, Emmy and her family are committed to making a positive impact.

Outside of work, Emmy embraces a life filled with simple joys and meaningful connections. She cherishes time spent with her family – especially her young daughter, Alma, and husband, Chase. She also loves getting lost in a good book and finds peace in tending to her beloved houseplants. For Emmy, fulfillment comes from appreciating the little things—quiet moments, deep conversations, and the chance to make someone else’s day just a little bit easier.

Her compassionate nature and unwavering dedication make her an essential part of the Nelson – Doran team and a trusted guide to the families she serves.

A native of Jamestown, North Dakota, Erik has dedicated much of his life to serving others through funeral service. After graduating from Jamestown High School in 1969, he pursued his love for science and earned a Biology degree from Minnesota State University – Moorhead in 1973. Not long after, he followed his calling into funeral service, completing the Mortuary Science Program at the University of Minnesota in 1975.

Erik began his professional career as a funeral director in Minneapolis, where he gained valuable experience and a deep appreciation for the meaningful role funeral directors play in times of loss. In 1988, he joined the team at Nelson – Doran Funeral Home, bringing with him not only decades of experience but also a calm, steady presence that became a hallmark of his service. Licensed in both Minnesota and North Dakota, Erik spent nearly 30 years supporting families with respect, kindness, and professionalism.

Though he officially retired in 2017, Erik remains a cherished part of the Nelson – Doran family. Always generous with his time and wisdom, he’s the first to step in when an extra hand is needed—proof that dedication like his doesn’t fade with retirement.

Erik and his wife, Pat, live in Baxter, where they enjoy a quieter pace of life surrounded by family. They have two daughters and are the proud grandparents of three grandchildren—who, according to Erik, are just the right age to spoil and send home. An outdoorsman at heart, he spends much of his free time fishing and relaxing on the lake, enjoying the natural beauty of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Erik’s legacy at Nelson – Doran is felt in the countless lives he touched and the calm confidence he brought to his work. His continued presence is a gift we’re grateful for.

For Wendy Doran, being part of a funeral service family has always been more than just a profession—it’s a shared calling. From the very beginning, she and her husband, Mike, understood that supporting families through life’s most challenging moments would be a family commitment, one rooted in compassion, trust, and care.

Wendy specializes in advanced planning, working closely with individuals and families to ensure their wishes are clearly understood and thoughtfully documented. Her calm, approachable nature makes what can often feel like a difficult conversation feel comfortable and empowering. With a focus on helping people prepare both emotionally and financially, Wendy brings a sense of peace and clarity to those who want to plan—removing uncertainty and allowing their loved ones to focus on what truly matters when the time comes.

Wendy and Mike live in Merrifield, where they’ve raised their two daughters, Megan and Abby. As a family, they enjoy snowmobiling, spending time outdoors, and attending Minnesota Wild games whenever they get the chance. Their household is also lovingly ruled by a crew of four-legged family members—all of whom are completely not spoiled (depending on who you ask).

Wendy finds balance and joy in her daily life through yoga practice, visiting her daughters at college, and making time to connect with close friends. She is an active member of St. Francis Catholic Church and enjoys staying healthy and grounded as a member of The Gym in Pequot Lakes.

Her dedication to the families she works with, along with her genuine warmth and attention to detail, make Wendy an invaluable part of the Nelson – Doran team.

Devyn Mudgett Baker wears many hats—and she wears them all with grace, warmth, and heart. At Nelson – Doran Funeral Home, Devyn provides essential support both behind the scenes and during services. Whether she’s helping out in the office, greeting guests with a warm cup of coffee, or gently guiding families during visitations, Devyn’s goal is simple: to be a calming, compassionate presence during moments that matter most.

What makes Devyn's role especially meaningful is the personal journey that led her here. After experiencing the sudden loss of her husband, Devyn was deeply touched by the support she received from her community. That experience shaped her, and now she chooses to spend her free time “paying it forward”—offering the same care, empathy, and steady presence to others who are walking through grief.

While her time with Nelson – Doran is part-time, her impact is anything but small. During the week, Devyn works full-time at Brainerd Eye Care, where she’s dedicated to helping patients receive the best in vision care. Her work there reflects the same kindness and attentiveness she brings to every funeral service she supports.

Outside of work, Devyn enjoys spending time with her loved ones and continuing to build a life rooted in connection, healing, and giving back.

Devyn is a shining example of how everyday acts of compassion—offering a cup of coffee, a kind word, or simply being present—can make a lasting difference.

For over 30 years, Jerry has been a steady, friendly, and reliable part of the Nelson – Doran team. His presence is one that families and community members alike have come to recognize and appreciate. Whether he’s coordinating the flow of a service or welcoming guests with a warm handshake and a kind word, Jerry takes pride in making sure every detail runs smoothly—always with a quiet confidence and a neighborly smile.

Jerry’s roots in public service go deep. Before joining Nelson – Doran, he worked with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and his love for the outdoors continues to be a big part of who he is. These days, you’ll often find him talking about his family with pride—especially his grandson, who now serves in law enforcement as a Brainerd Police Officer.

A longtime member of First Lutheran Church, Jerry is grounded in faith, community, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He loves to golf and fish, though he jokes that he never quite gets as much time on the green or the water as he’d like—mostly because his family comes first. Whether it’s sharing a meal, attending a grandchild’s event, or just catching up with loved ones, time with his family is what matters most.

Jerry is also a dedicated dog lover, known for always having a soft spot for four-legged companions.

With decades of service, a big heart, and a strong connection to the community, Jerry remains an important and beloved part of the Nelson – Doran family.

Bill has been a part of the Nelson – Doran Funeral Home family since he was just 16 years old—starting by mowing the lawn, cleaning cars, and lending a hand wherever he could to make life a little easier for the funeral directors. What began as a summer job quickly grew into something much more. Over the past 40+ years, Bill has taken on many of the behind-the-scenes responsibilities that help keep the funeral home running smoothly, handling business operations with quiet reliability and genuine care.

Though his role here is part-time, his commitment is full-hearted. By day, Bill serves as the Business Manager for the Crosby-Ironton School District, where he works tirelessly to ensure students, staff, and families have the resources and support they need. Known for his sharp insight, integrity, and tireless work ethic, Bill has become the go-to person for all sorts of questions—not just about numbers and policies, but about people and possibilities. His depth of knowledge and quiet wisdom make him a trusted presence in every setting he’s part of.

Bill is also a man of faith and community, and a longtime member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pequot Lakes. While he’s not one to seek the spotlight, those who know him understand just how much he contributes, both professionally and personally.

Whether he’s answering a complex question, stepping in to lend a hand at a service, or simply leading by example, Bill embodies what it means to serve with consistency, humility, and heart.

Jed Harting is one of those invaluable team members who quietly keep things running smoothly behind the scenes at Nelson – Doran Funeral Home. You’ll often find him lending a hand with transportation, vehicle maintenance, and helping to set up and run services whenever the need arises. Jed is also the family’s unofficial chef, always on a mission to figure out how to cater lunches for the team and families—because he truly loves to cook and believes food brings people together.

As Rhonda’s better half, Jed is often called into “funeral home duty,” and he embraces it wholeheartedly. By day, Jed has spent over 20 years working for the railroad, and before that, he worked at Potlatch. A native of Pillager, he has deep roots in the area and a strong passion for contributing to the Brainerd Lakes community.

Jed’s energy and enthusiasm extend well beyond work. A lifelong lover of sports, he enjoys playing and coaching all kinds of sports—a passion he gets to share and live out through his children’s activities. His competitive spirit is matched only by his love of music, where he takes great joy in finding the perfect song to honor a family’s memory during a service or video tribute.

With his hands-on approach, genuine heart, and community spirit, Jed is a cornerstone of support for both Nelson – Doran and the families they serve.

When there’s a job to be done at Nelson – Doran, Abe Tuomi is always ready to step in—with a smile and a can-do attitude. Whether it’s assisting with transportation, fixing a stubborn door lock, or jumping into a last-minute construction project, Abe approaches every task with dependable enthusiasm and care.

As a husband and the brother of two funeral directors, Abe quickly embraced the reality that funeral service is truly a family business. He understands the importance of teamwork and support, making him a trusted and valued member of the Nelson – Doran family.

By day, Abe helps run Gull Lake Glass alongside his dad, keeping busy with the ins and outs of the family business. But whenever Nelson – Doran needs him, he’s ready to lend a hand and keep things moving smoothly.

Outside of work, Abe cherishes time spent with his wife, Kendal, and their two daughters, Ivadell and Opaline. He’s an avid outdoorsman who loves to hunt, fish, and golf, always making the most of his time in the beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area.

Abe’s steady presence and willingness to help—whether big or small—make him an essential part of the Nelson – Doran team and community.

For over 20 years, Ann Burch has been the trusted stylist at Nelson – Doran Funeral Home, dedicated to helping everyone look and feel their best during important moments. Whether it’s preparing a loved one for a service or offering a comforting presence behind the scenes, Ann’s skill and kindness make a lasting difference. And the best part? She’s always just a phone call away, ready to help whenever needed.

Outside of the funeral home, Ann works as an inventory specialist at Walmart, where her attention to detail and organizational skills shine. When she’s not busy at work, you’ll find her cherishing quiet moments with her adorable kittens, enjoying quality time with her mom, or volunteering her time and talents to support the funeral home family she’s been part of for decades.

Ann’s blend of professionalism, warmth, and dedication makes her a beloved and essential member of the Nelson – Doran team.

Behind every smooth virtual service and secure digital system at Nelson – Doran, you’ll find Jason, our trusted IT specialist, who ensures our technology runs seamlessly and our families’ personal data stays safe. Whether he’s helping create a more user-friendly live-streaming experience or troubleshooting computer issues, Jason is always ready to jump in and solve the problem with expertise and a calm, approachable demeanor.

By day, Jason serves as the Director of IT for Crow Wing County, managing complex systems and keeping the community connected. He’s also married to Darcy, the director at The Center in Brainerd, and together they share a passion for service and community engagement.

Outside of work, Jason enjoys photography, capturing moments that tell stories and celebrate the beauty around him. Though his schedule is busy, he always makes time to lend a hand when Nelson – Doran faces a technical challenge—proving that no problem is too big or too small when it comes to supporting the families and team he cares about.

Tom Doran’s life was marked by service, dedication, and a deep commitment to family and community. Born in 1929, Tom graduated from high school in 1947 before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. Following his military service, he pursued his passion for funeral service, earning a degree in Mortuary Science from the University of Minnesota in 1954.

In 1956, Tom purchased the Hoenig Funeral Home in Brainerd, and just a few years later, in 1960, he partnered with John Nelson to establish the Nelson-Doran Funeral Home, a family business that has been a pillar of the community ever since.

Tom and his wife, Marguerite, were longtime members of St. Francis Catholic Church, where their faith played an important role in their lives. Together, they raised three children—Kevin, Michael, and Kathy—instilling in them the same values of service and care that defined Tom’s life.

Tom’s passions extended beyond his profession. He loved farming and hunting, activities that connected him to the land and to cherished moments of peace. Most of all, he treasured time with his grandchildren and had a well-known fondness for chocolate cake—a simple joy that reflected his warm and approachable spirit.

Tom’s legacy lives on in the family business he helped build, in the countless families he served with compassion, and in the love he shared with those closest to him.

Steve Wardrip’s journey in funeral service spans over 45 years, marked by dedication, leadership, and a deep connection to community. Born and raised in Mason City, Iowa, Steve graduated from Mason City High School in 1970 before pursuing his calling at the University of Minnesota College of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1975.

Throughout his career, Steve managed funeral homes in Virginia, Eveleth, and Chisholm before returning to his hometown to serve in a local funeral home. In 1992, he made the Brainerd Lakes Area his home, managing a funeral home there until it was acquired by a multi-national corporation. After retiring for a time, Steve found his way back to the family-owned and operated Nelson – Doran Funeral Home in 2012, where his experience and steady presence have been invaluable.

Steve and his wife, Jean, live in Baxter and are proud parents to their son, Adam, who has blessed them with many grandchildren. Faith plays an important role in Steve’s life—he is an active member of Lakewood Evangelical Free Church and leads an annual mission group that travels to Alaska, a meaningful tradition that reflects his heart for service and community. He also enjoys relaxing and recharging with yearly trips to Hawaii.

Known around Nelson – Doran as the resident handyman, Steve brings practical skills and a willingness to help wherever needed. Outside of work, he’s a passionate car enthusiast, especially fond of street rods and sports cars—a hobby that keeps him fueled with energy and excitement.