Norma Nelson as one of the few remaining WWII female active duty Veterans, Norma Nelson exemplified the “Greatest Generation” with a lifetime of service first to her country as an Army nurse, then as a Registered Nurse, volunteer in her church and community, family caregiver, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Norma passed away February 23, 2025 at the age of 101. Born July 2, 1923 in Skokie, IL to Jennie and Louis Delfino, she was the youngest of three sisters. Mildred, Bernadette and Norma were excellent students and avid athletes in several sports, long before it was common for women to be athletic. After graduating from high school, Norma attended college with the goal of becoming a Spanish teacher. The bombing of Pearl Harbor changed her life’s direction as it did so many of that generation. She left college and entered nurse’s training to serve her country by becoming an Army Nurse. Following service on a hospital ship and Camp Kilmer, NJ, Norma returned to the Chicago area working first as a psych nurse, then as a private duty nurse.
Norma married Russell E. Nelson on July 26, 1953 in Flossmoor, IL. They were married 60 years before Russell’s passing in 2013. With marriage, she was blessed with two stepchildren, Kenneth and Linnea. Russ and Norma then welcomed Nancy in 1958 and Russell Jr. in 1960. The Nelsons left Illinois and moved to Fort Lauderdale, FL in 1964. It was in Fort Lauderdale that they became devoted followers of Christ and members of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church led by Reverend D. James Kennedy. The Nelson’s life was filled with family, church, wonderful music provided by Russ Sr. ,great cooking and baking provided by Norma, sports, and travel throughout the US, Europe and many other parts of the world. During their travels they fell in love with Northern Michigan, first enjoying a cottage in Bay View, then buying a home in Petoskey. In Petoskey they made lifelong friends and found a church home at Petoskey United Methodist Church led by Rev. Donald Merrill.
Norma and Russ were very active members of Petoskey UMC. Norma and dear friend, Hazel Meyer, were key leaders of the Wednesday night potluck dinners and the church rummage sales. No one could bake pies as well and as quickly as Norma and Hazel! In later years, Norma and Russ continued to travel frequently, often visiting children and grandchildren in various parts of the country. Many winters were spent in Lakeland, FL with several Petoskey friends wintering in the same area. After several family members moved to Johnson City, TN, Norma and Russ decided to make the move with them. As in other cities, the Nelsons quickly found a church home and became members of First Christian Church and active volunteers in the community. Norma joined PEO and remained a member until her passing.
They were blessed with many wonderful years in Johnson city. In their final move as a couple, the Nelsons made Indianapolis, IN home, close to children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. They enjoyed a wonderful life there, their time spent with family and friends from Geist Christian Church. Members of their Bible study were especially faithful in their friendship with Norma and Russ. Following Russ’ passing, Norma spent 7 happy years at Hoosier Village, a retirement community in Zionsville, IN. She loved her friends there, and days were filled with Bible study, Bridge, water aerobics, volunteering, and baking treats for the Hoosier Village team members. For her final years, Norma returned to Johnson City, TN. While changing health did not allow her to be active, she brightened every room with her kindness, concern and caring for others. A dedicated prayer warrior, she started every day of her life with devotions. She remained faithful in praying for family and friends until the last days of her life. Norma will be remembered for her unwavering faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and for her devotion to Russell and to her family. She was known for her unflagging energy, fierce loyalty to family and friends, and a deep love for all dogs. Her cooking, particularly family Italian specialties, was fabulous. Her pies were legendary.
She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Norma is survived by children, Kenneth (Susie), Russell Jr. (Barb), Linnea Nelson-Bush (Ken), and Nancy Nelson Grothouse (Erik). Grandchildren, Jeff Nelson (Kelli), Amy Nelson Bogenshutz (Neil) Brad Nelson (Christy), Jacob Nelson (Anna), Jenny Nelson, Peter Nelson, Jeff Bush (Karen), Marcia Bush Switzer (Jeff), Michelle Montgomery (Alex) and Leslie Jones. She is also survived by 19 great grandchildren.
The family of Mrs. Norma Marie Nelson is in the care of Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park.
