Mary Colleen Nelson

Obituary Mary Colleen Nelson,88, of Federal Way WA, passed away November 16, 2017 after a brief hospitalization. Colleen was born in Janesville Minnesota on December 17, 1928 to Thomas and Sabella Lynch. After graduating from Janesville High School in 1946she attended St. Mary's Nursing College in Mankato Minnesota and graduated with an LPN in 1948. She enjoyed years of practicing as a nurse in many different settings, stating that helping stroke patients recover, was her favorite. She met her husband, James, at a dance in her home town when they were both teenagers. In October 29, 1949 they were married in Honolulu, Hawaii where James was stationed as a First-Class Petty Officer in the US Navy. They shared many years of adventure as they traveled with the Navy. Hawaii forever remained a highlight of their travels during their 68 years of marriage. In addition to her nursing career, Colleen never experienced a dull moment or lack of activity as the mother of six children. One of Colleen's favorite pastimes was creating stained glass art. Her most ambitious and stunning endeavor was the church windows of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Grand Junction, Colorado where she was a parishioner for years. The windows depicted the story of the Corporal Acts of Mercy. Like the stained glass windows she created, Colleen's life was colorful, beautiful and unforgettable. Among her many attributes, she was known for her candor, loyalty, generosity of heart, and amazing pies. Colleen will be sorely missed by her family and the parish of St. Vincent's where she and her husband were members. Colleen was preceded in death by her daughter, Shannon Rose Nelson; son, Patrick T (Christine) Nelson; grandsons, Erin Brashaber and Erik Weslin; and sister, Theresa Lynch Ohnsted. Colleen is survived by her husband, James C Nelson; sister, Sarah Glynn; brother, Thomas Lynch; daughters, Kathleen Nelson, Ann (Jon) Weslin; sons, Michael J Nelson, Timothy J (Deidre) Nelson; grandchildren, Brett Brashaber, Sean (Jenai)Nelson, Colleen Weslin, Megan Nelson, Anika Nelson; and 9 beloved great-grandchildren, Alexis, Keira, Mickey, Molly, Conor, Emily, Mia, Jace and Anika. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at 12:00pm at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Federal Way, WA. A Vigil will be held on Friday, November 24, 2017 at 7:00pm also at the church. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home (253) 572-6003.