Irene Mae Nelson

Survived by daughters Charla Mosbrucker, Lorrie Nelson-Smith, devoted foster daughter Vickkey Downey; sons Timothy Nelson and Steven Nelson; sister Adeline McCollum, brother Louis Nemnich; numerous grandchildren & great-grandchildren, and nieces & nephews. Preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Charley Nelson, daughter Sherry Nelson, 2 sisters & 5 brothers.

Irene was born and raised in Belle Fourche, South Dakota. Growing up with nine siblings, she worked on the family farm during the depression. After graduating from high school, she moved to Chicago to work for a while. Later she, her parents, and several other family members moved to Seattle.

In Seattle she was a Rosie the Riveter during World War II at Boeing, meeting her husband Charley Nelson there. They raised their family in South Seattle, retiring to Lake Martha. She was many things during her long life: Rosie the Riveter, gardener, cake decorator, day care operator, volunteer, Boy Scout & Girl Scout leader, and active member of several Lutheran Churches. Most of all she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

A special thank you to the loving staff at the Josephine Caring Community.

No services at her request.

Condolences may be offered at www.wellerfh.com