Mary J. Nelson

Mary J. Nelson, age 73, of Appleton, passed away on February 1, 2021 with her husband of 52 years by her side.  She was born Mary J. Fuchsteiner on June 11, 1947 in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Sylvester J. Fuchsteiner and Ruth M. Fuchsteiner (Pitz).  She graduated from Aquinas Catholic High School in 1965, and from St. Francis School of Nursing (RN) in 1968.  She married her high school sweetheart, Gordon Nelson, on January 18, 1969. They raised their three sons in Appleton.

Mary is survived by her husband, Gordon, three sons, Jeffrey of Phoenix, AZ, Christopher of Phoenix, AZ, and Timothy of Castle Rock, CO, daughter-in-law, and three grandsons, Callum, Aidan, and Miles.  Her grandsons were the love of her life.  Mary is also survived by her sister Susan Hansen (Dennis), nieces, and a great niece and nephew.  She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Mark and William and her grandparents.

Mary’s career as a Registered Nurse spanned 38 years.  She worked in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, and ultimately spent 32 years in Obstetrics at AMC/Thedacare.  Mary’s work displayed her sense of care, patience, compassion, empathy and understanding.  She was often acknowledged for her work.  She aided multiple women through the birthing process.  Mary always answered the call day or night.

Mary was a kind, wonderful, fun loving friend to many.  Her family was very blessed.  She was the personification of love, warmth, care, and self-giving.  Mary was definitely a gift from God.  She was an excellent cook and baker.  Many can attest to the meals and treats she shared over the years.

Mary enjoyed traveling during retirement.  Mostly, she enjoyed spending the winters in Arizona with family and friends.  Mary was an avid reader, she had a passion for sports, and never missed watching the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers.

After 52 years of being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, our hearts will never be the same.

Due to current health protocols, there will be a small private service for family only. Internment will take place at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pillars Shelters Inc, 605 E Hancock St, Appleton, WI 54911 or Salvation Army Fox Cities, 130 E North St, Appleton, WI 54911