Nelson, Rachel A. (1952-2010)
NELSON, STRAKS, DEVRIES, KUYPER
Posted By: Paul Nagy, volunteer (email)
Date: 8/22/2010 at 13:36:37
Rachel A. Nelson
October 6, 1952 - August 16, 2010JOICE - Rachel Ann Nelson, age 57, of Joice, died Monday, August 16, 2010, at her home in Joice.
Rachel Ann Nelson was born in LeMars, Iowa, on October 6, 1952, the daughter of Hubert and Nelly (Devries) Straks.
She graduated from Sheldon High School and continued her education at Central College in Pella, Iowa. In 1979, while in a training program at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, Rachel met and fell in love with her future husband, Steven Nelson.
On December 15, 1979, Rachel was united in marriage to Steven in Sheldon, Iowa. They resided on a farm in rural Mount Valley Township (Winnebago Coounty) for nearly 30 years. Rachel was a devoted wife and mother.
She excelled in many careers including teaching science and piano, freelance writing, selling and supporting practice management software, billing for a local ambulance service, leading worship in church, and acting as church secretary.
Her hobbies included playing the piano and pipe organ, gardening, bird watching, vacationing, and attending Iowa State University football games with her husband. Of all of her interests, however, taking care of her house and family brought her the greatest joy.
On Monday, August 16, 2010, Rachel lost a long and valiant battle with AL Systemic Amyloidosis. She passed away quickly at home with her husband, Steven, by her side.
She is survived by her husband, Steven; daughter Jennifer Nelson of Storm Lake, Iowa; son Eric (Amie) Nelson of Lenexa, Kansas. She is also survived by her mother, Nelly Straks of Creston, Iowa; her brother, Jerry (Dorothy) Straks of Fremont, California and her sister Barb (Dennis) Kuyper of Creston, Iowa.
Rachel was preceded in death by her father, Hubert Straks.
Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 21, 2010, at Word of Faith Dominion Church in Lake Mills, Iowa, with Pastor Douglas Domokos officiating.
Burial will be at Beaver Creek Lutheran Cemetery in rural Joice.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 PM on Friday, August 20th, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N Clark Street, Forest City, and will continue an hour prior to service at the church.
Copyright © 2010, Petersen Lund Funeral Home
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