Mary E. Nelson

Mary E. Nelson, 101 ½, passed away peacefully Friday, August 8, 2025 in the comfort of her family’s presence.

Her life began February 10, 1924 in Barneveld, Wisconsin the fourth child of Maynard and Sara Williams.  She married Robert Leslie Nelson in 1950, and together they built a loving family.  Mary pursued her passion for caring for others by studying nursing at the University of Wisconsin, becoming a registered nurse.  After forty years of marriage, Robert preceded her in death in 1998.

Mary moved from Goshen, Indiana to Cassopolis in 1999 to live near her son, Jeffory.  She became an active member of the United Methodist Church of Cassopolis and enjoyed the companionship and activities at the Cass County Council on Aging. 

Mary loved the outdoors, wildlife, bird watching, and gardening.  Her warm spirit, dedication to family and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.

Mary will be greatly missed by family and friends.  She is survived by her three sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffory and Catherine Nelson of Cassopolis, Richard and Barbara Nelson of Goshen, Indiana, David and Christine Nelson of Frankfort, Michigan; as well as five grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. 

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy Bowers; two brothers, Arthur Williams, Daniel Williams; and a step grandson, Jeremy Dowd.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Mary be made to Cass County Council on Aging, Post Office Box 5, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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