"Kathy and I were saddened to learn of the passing of one of my favorite cousins. Although Lois was considerably older than I and my siblings, whenever we visited our relatives in Iowa she took sincere effort to visit personally with each of us and make us feel special. She did the same whenever I attended French Family Picnics as an adult, always seeking me out and spending special time with me. In more recent years I'd become surprised from time-to-time by receiving a note from her asking me some question about an interest she had at the moment on a topic I might have specific knowledge about. I recall fondly a visit from her and Marvin to Madison while I was a teenager--we had a wonderful boating and fishing day on Lake Mendota! Kathy and I send our sincerest condolences. Know that we are grieving with you. Steve"
In loving memory of
Lois J. Nelson
August 14, 1924 - December 8, 2015
Lois Jean Nelson, 91, passed away Tuesday, December 8, 2015, in Des Moines.
Lois was born August 14, 1924, in Renwick, Iowa, to Bertie and Pearl (Trask) Martin. After growing up on a farm in Wright County and graduating from Renwick High School in 1942, Lois attended Iowa State College (Iowa State University) where she received her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics in 1946.
She married the love of her life, Marvin Nelson, on June 30, 1946, and together they raised three children while operating a farm in rural Wright County. Lois taught Home Economics for several years at Vernon High School and later continued to help the community by substitute teaching.
Her love of music was evident as she played the piano and organ for family and friends as well as for larger audiences at Eastern Star and Renwick Baptist Church. In later years, she frequently dressed as a clown and played the piano to the delight of local nursing home residents.
Lois also loved baking bread and delivering it to friends, and also producing a large variety of fruits and vegetables in her home garden. She was an active member of the Renwick Baptist Church, Boone Township Women and Eastern Star. Lois and Marvin enjoyed traveling near and far, with particular interest in boating and fishing.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister (Marian Buchanan) and her husband of 51 years, Marvin.
Lois is survived by three children: Miriam (David) Koenigs of Marshalltown, Anne Hepburn of West Des Moines, and Dr. Lynn (Julie) Nelson of West Des Moines; six grandchildren: Michael Koenigs, Mark Koenigs, Grant Nelson, Daniel Nelson, Joseph Nelson and Mary Nelson; four great-grandchildren: Madeline Koenigs, Keely Koenigs, Caroline Koenigs and Anna Koenigs; and two siblings: Margaret Lubbert and Walter Martin.
In lieu of Flowers, Lois's family requests memorial donations be made to the First Baptist Church in Renwick, Iowa
Tributes
"Our condolence to Miriam, Anne and Dr Lynn and families
Your Mother is not only a relative but a dear friend too. She was my teacher at Vernon too
Roger and Nilam Engstrom"
"My sincere condolences for the family of Lois. I have many fond memories of family time with the Nelson's boating at Lake Cornelia, sleepovers, play dates, and time with our church family. Lois shared her musical talents and played the organ at my wedding in 1991. Prayers of comfort for all."
"Our condolences to the entire family. Lois was a big booster for the community of Renwick and a steady and staunch supporter of our small business for the past 30 years. She always had positive words to share whenever our paths crossed. We will certainly miss her as will the entire community. "
"Lois was a great friend to my parents. She enriched the lives of those around her. She is missed, but her legacy will be appreciated for years to come."