Florence Irene Nelson

Florence Irene Nelson died peacefully surrounded by many of her beloved family members on Thursday, January 10, 2013. “Flo” was born on a farm in South Dakota in 1911, the youngest of 10 children. She married and had 6 children, followed by 16 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, and 21 great –great grandchildren for a total of 78 decedents. She was predeceased by her parents; all nine brothers and sisters; two husbands; two sons and two daughters; and three grandchildren. Locally, she is survived by her daughter, Sharon Donegan and partner, Don Clark of Yarmouth Port; her grandson, Mark Stacy and wife, Nicola and great grandsons Jacob and Benjamin of Marstons Mills; her granddaughter, Kim Stacy and partner, Jeanne Pasteris of Hyannis; her son, Dennis Nelson and wife Linda of Marblehead; her grandson, Drew Nelson and wife Stephanie and great-grandchildren Marley and PD of Melrose; and her grandson, Patrick Donegan and wife Kate and great-grandchildren Rory and Piper of Marblehead.

Flo lived a long and happy life centered on her very large, fun-loving family. She loved playing cards, board games, all sports and especially Pinochle and Cribbage. Flo was also awarded the “Best Cinnamon Roll Maker in The World” by all family members. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, farmer, retail sales person, and business manager. She enjoyed cooking, fishing, bowling, golfing and dancing but most of all, times with her family. An avid Red Sox fan who religiously watched her favorite team, Flo was honored by the Red Sox at Fenway Park on her 90th birthday, often cited by her as one of the most exciting days of her long life.

Feisty to the end, she insisted that her demise be attributed to too many doctors and over medication, albeit seemingly contradictive to her long lifespan.

A grave-side memorial service will be held in Madison, South Dakota, followed by a Celebration of Life and family reunion at the family farm of grandson, John Nelson and his wife, Joan in Irene, South Dakota in July.

I have come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me.

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room-why cry for a soul set free.

Miss me and remember me, but not with your heads bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared-miss me but let me go.

For this is a journey that we all must take and each must go along.

It is all a part of the Master’s Plan-a step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart, go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds- miss me but let me go.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in her honor to Independence House, 160 Basset Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601 ([email protected])