Marian Lucille Nelson’s death came peacefully on the morning of Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at the home of her daughter.
She was born in Rockford on Feb. 17, 1917, to Alfred Reuben and Laura Hoof Pearson.
After attending Rockford College for two years, she enrolled at the University of Illinois where she received her B.A. in English education. This is where she met Paul Nelson, whom she married on Sept. 26, 1942. They were married for 63 years before Paul died.
Marian’s greatest joy was her family, Carol (David) Thomas of Champaign, Mark (Sayumi) of Toronto and Connie of Boston; six grandchildren, Amy (Dan) Rector, Julie (Chris) Bosland, Luke Nelson, Sachi Nelson, Terry Nelson and Eric Nelson; plus five great-grandchildren, Sydney and Casey Rector, Cooper, Zachary and Keira Bosland.
Marian was an excellent teacher of English, speech and humanities at East Aurora High School and Waubonsee Community College. She received her master’s in English from the University of Illinois in 1967. Later she served as assistant registrar for Lewis University in Romeoville. After retirement, she and Paul moved to Savoy, where she taught adults how to read. They frequently opened their home to foreign students.
Marian enjoyed reading and word games and traveled to all 50 states and many foreign countries. She was active in Grace Lutheran Church, serving as church librarian among many other activities. She attended Bible Study Fellowship for many years.
Marian and Paul moved to The Windsor of Savoy in 2002 where they enjoyed a warm, supportive community during their final years. She will be remembered by many as thoughtful, hospitable and helpful.
There will be a service of remembrance on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 10:30 a.m. in the Savoy Room at The Windsor of Savoy, 401 Burwash Ave, followed by a reception until noon to greet the family. Pastor Roger Digges and Chaplain Jean Nanney will lead the service. A celebration of Marian’s life for extended family will be held at a later time.
In recent years, Marian gave money to Bright English School in southern India with which they built the Marian Nelson Wing of the school. Donations can be made by check to First Presbyterian Church, 302 Church St., Champaign, IL 61820 with Bright School in the memo. Or you may donate to Provena Hospice, 1501 Interstate Drive, Champaign, IL 61822.
Arrangements by Morgan Memorial Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy.
