Elizabeth Nelson

Elizabeth Breed Nelson passed away on Wednesday, May 24th at the age of 92. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Orval Nelson, sister Janet Gavin and nieces Sally White, Ann Sample , Jannie Gavin and nephew Greg Gavin. Survived by daughters Deborah (Bruce) Nelson, Dana Nelson ( Brian Lindberg), and son Bradley ( Patricia Coombs) Nelson. 4 Grandchildren, Tiffany ( Chris ) Raaf,Wade,Lauryn and Maxwell and Great Grandson Brock.

Elizabeth Ann Breed was born to Bessie Aylesworth and Dr. Arthur Breed on December 9th, 1924 in Elmwood,WI. Her father was the town Doctor in Elmwood and surrounding communities. Beth enjoyed spending time with her Father and loved to ride along on country house calls as it was an adventure. It meant a ride by horse and buggy! She loved to share those stories and would recall when Doc Breed stayed at a home too long the horses would get impatient and come home without him. She knew her Dad wasn’t in the buggy because the horses would “clip” the big tree as they headed for the barn! So,no wonder Beth’s love of horseback riding in the surrounding hills and valleys. She was a huge animal lover!

After graduating high school in Elmwood she attended Stephens College in Columbia, MO and then UW Madison,graduating with a degree in Psychology. She then worked in Chicago and attended business school. On October 8th, 1949 she married her sweetheart, Orval and lived in St Paul for a short time before moving to Des Moines, IA.

Beth enjoyed living in Des Moines and made many dear lifelong friendships. She was one of the founding members of the Beta Signa Phi sorority chapter. In 1956 she moved to Crosslake where she operated C&C Boat Works with Orval and was the CFO. Beth was active in the early years with the Whitefish Yacht Club and an advocate for Camp Knutson and children. Leisure time was spent playing with family and friends on “Big Blue” the family pontoon, swimming and picnicking.

Beth had a passion for cultural arts,music and theatre and was committed to sharing the arts with her children. She loved to travel, across the United States and Europe and to learn about other cultures. She also had a wonderful sense of humor, loved a good joke or funny story and literally could laugh until she cried. It was sometimes contagious!

Mom, we will always remember you as our constant and devoted Mother guiding us with your grace,your intelligence, your kindness and your gentleness. You taught us to value and respect the people who cross our paths in this life, that each of us has a unique story and to appreciate and cherish those who share our journey. We will always be grateful for your love and support and continue to share our love for you with our memories and stories.

A private family service will be held.

Memorials can be made to Camp Knutson, and mailed to 36448 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442.