Jean Marie (Holmstrom) Nelson

Jean Marie Nelson, age 93 peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, March 16, 2018.  Jean Marie was born on June 5, 1924 to John and Edna Holmstrom in Chicago Illinois.  Jean Marie loved playing the piano in her younger years.  She was able to listen to any song and instantly play it on the piano.  Jean Marie enjoyed exercise, bingo, being the “head cheerleader” of the Wii bowling team and climbing into her daughter’s Jeep for weekly outings.  Jean Marie was very much a “people person”.  Her kind and loving spirit was always present in her life.

Jean Marie was preceded in death by her husband John Nelson and second husband, James Stephens (Don and Craig).  She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Lynne Olenyk (Chuck) and grandson Zach.  Other family members include Curt and Micky Kemppainen, Kelly and Dustin Bulk and their children Nathan and Brealyn, Jeff Kemppainen and other nieces and nephews.

After moving to Grand Rapids in 1957, while raising her daughter, she worked part time at the American Cancer Society.  She loved camping with dear friends and visiting the condo in Florida with her husband.  In her later years, she exercised at St. Mary’s, belonged to two Red Hat Clubs and faithfully attended Bethlehem Lutheran Church and later, Trinity Lutheran Church.  She enjoyed attending Joyful Days and looked forward to going again in a few weeks.  Her friends meant the world to her.  She was quiet at times, but also spunky and funny.  She loved her family dearly.  Jean Marie is now in the presence of her Savior, along with her beloved John, second husband Jim and wonderful friends.

The family would like to thank the Care Team at St. Mary’s for their wonderful care and guidance.  Her final few years were spent at Meadowlark Retirement Village in Sparta.  Jean Marie found much happiness, love and fun while living there.  The family wishes to express their deep appreciation and compassion to Meadowlark.

Cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2018 at 1:00 PM at Meadowlark Retirement Village, 65 Ida Red, Sparta, Michigan 49345.

If desired, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of her husband, John Nelson.

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