Else Marie Nissen Hitt

Else Marie Nissen Hitt, 70, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, in Grand Lake, Colorado, surrounded by the loving presence of her family. She faced her diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma with strength and grace, continuing to care deeply for others, just as she had lived her entire life.

Born in Stavanger, Norway, on August 14, 1954, Else was the cherished daughter of Åsa Bergljiot Skaara Nissen and Peter Lynge Nissen. She grew up alongside her brother Bernt, sharing memories and experiences that would shape her warm and empathetic personality. Her Norwegian heritage remained an important part of her identity throughout her lifetime, bringing her great pride and joy.

Else moved to the United States in 1974 with her parents, where she pursued her passion for education, earning her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Mount Vernon College in 1977, and then a Master's Degree in Education from George Washington University in 1978. Shortly after completing her studies, Else married the love of her life, Steven Hitt, in May 1978 on the beautiful campus of Mount Vernon College in Washington D.C. Together, they built a life founded on faith and love, welcoming two daughters—Jennifer in 1983, and Ellen in 1985, while residing in Amsterdam, NY.

Else’s career was a heartfelt reflection of her dedication to serving and nurturing others. She spent many fulfilling years as an educator, working with preschoolers, kindergartners, and first graders, as well as special education. The preschool program, in Morganton, North Carolina, for which she worked as a preschool teacher, the Mobile Pre-K Bus System, won a national award for excellence during her tenure. She also worked as a preschool special education transition coordinator and as an educator in the "Parents as Teachers" program in Morganton. Even in her retirement years, Else continued to serve meaningfully by teaching English to refugees through the Lutheran Services in Iowa.

Between June 2017 and July 2020, Else dedicated herself wholeheartedly to volunteer service at Beit CURE International Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia, while Steven worked with the hospital. At Beit CURE, Else poured her heart into encouraging and educating children receiving medical treatment, organizing arts and crafts, and preparing them socially and emotionally for procedures. She also compassionately guided mothers by helping them learn how to best care for and support their children with special needs.

In November 2024, Else and Steven moved to Grand Lake, Colorado, to eagerly embrace their new chapter, surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature and, most importantly, to reside closer to their beloved daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren. It was here amongst her family that Else spent her final months, always surrounded by love and the picturesque beauty of the outdoors she so cherished.

In every community she touched, Else became known for her vibrant spirit, warmth, and unwavering kindness. Active in the Daughters of Norway in Des Moines, as well as Bible Study Fellowship, she joyfully participated in social groups, community events, and church activities. Else loved sharing laughter, meals, games, and adventures with friends. Her devotion to family, faith, and lifelong learning was evident, alongside her passions for hiking, reading, knitting, and exploring the great outdoors, particularly her memorable hikes along sections of the Appalachian Trail.

Else Marie Nissen Hitt is survived by her devoted husband, Steven Hitt; her daughters Jennifer Melby (Kenneth Melby III) and Ellen Hitt; her grandchildren, Grant and Elizabeth; her brother, Bernt Nissen (Dragica Nissen).

A memorial service honoring Else's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, June 28th at 2:00 PM at Lord of the Valley Lutheran Church located at 63294 U.S. Hwy 40, Granby, CO 80446, officiated by Pastor Rob Moss. A reception will take place following the service at the home of a family friend, Bruce Barwick, located at 263 Purple Sage Ct, Tabernash, CO 80478. All who knew Else are warmly welcome.

In remembrance of Else, we hold dear these comforting words from Psalm 23:

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever."

Donations to the Cholangiocarcenoma Foundation are greatly appreciated by the family, as this was a significant source of support over the past several months. Donations will support research and resources provided by the foundation to patients and caregivers facing cholangiocarcenoma. Please use the link provided below to make a donation.

Cholangiocarcenoma Foundation: Donations

If you are unable to attend the memorial in person, you are welcome to participate in Else's service remotely using the Zoom link provided below.

Join us via Zoom here