Carol Jean Nelson, age 72, of Rio, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday March 28, 2023 at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born July 29, 1950 to Floyd and Violet {Tounchette) McKellar at St. Mary's in Wausau, WI. Due to the early deaths of her parents she was raised by her foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Davis, Rev. and Mrs. John E. Reese.

She was united in marriage to David M. Nelson June 8, 1974 at the church of the Nazarene in Columbus, WI. Mom was an avid movie goer and loved collecting a variety of collectables, with her favorite being angels.

"I know you are with me every step of the way. Guiding and protecting me, looking after me day after day. You are my Guardian, my Angel, pure and true. I feel blessed you are with me, feel blessed it is you. Thank you. " Chrissie Ash.

Survivors include her three daughters; Tammy Dawson (Shawn Brown), Connie (Todd) Anderson, and Stacy (Clint) Gilmore, grandchildren; Nelson and Toni Anderson, brother-in-law; Rick (Judy) Nelson, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws; Elmer and Lorraine Nelson, her son-in-law; Joseph Dawson, her beloved husband; David Nelson, and her beloved sister; Susan Gauger.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 8 at 10 A.M. at Grasse Funeral Home in Rio, Interment will follow at Hampden Cemetery in Hampden Township. Visitation will be held from 9 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home. A special thank you to her doctors and staff for their efforts and loving care Mom received while at St. Mary's Hospital.