NELSON
Gladys Eleanor Nelson passed away June 4, 2009 in Stettler, Alberta at the age of 91. Gladys was born at Stettler, Alberta on July 6, 1917. She graduated from Stettler High School and then took Home Economics at Calgary Tech. Gladys and Ray were married November 22, 1939. They operated the family farm in the Leahurst District for many years. The farm became a partnership with Ken in 1967. They moved to town in 1976 but remained active in the farming operation. Gladys contributed significantly to the community through her involvement in the Hospital Auxiliary, the Christmas Hamper Society, convening Rotary and the Pilot Knob Ladies Club. Her personal interests were gardening, curling, and playing cards. Throughout the years family and friends were of paramount importance. Most days, the house resembled a community drop-in center.
Gladys is survived by son, Ken (Susan) of Stettler, son, Ron (Jane), granddaughter, Rhonda (Gerry) Perrin and children, Victoria and Breanna; granddaughter, Michelle (Marty) Luskey and children, Quinn and Cierra; granddaughter, Angela (Mike) Burrows and children, Evan and Gabriel and grandson, Darryl all of the Toronto area; and brother, Don of Stettler. She was predeceased by husband, Ray in 1996; infant daughter, Joan; daughter-in-law Elaine; brother Lloyd Lee and sister, Gertrude Armstrong. Funeral services were held at Stettler United Church on Monday, June 8, 2009 with Susan Nelson officiating. A family DVD was presented as friends gathered prior to the service. Tributes were given by Lorna Tink and Lee Cave. Musical tributes were by Elaine Hennel on the piano and Elaine Coulthard on the organ, with the Stettler United Church Choir singing "When We Are Living" as well as leading the congregational hymns: "In the Garden," "In the Bulb There is a Flower," "We Shall Go Out With Hope of Resurrection" and "Prayer of Dedication." Interment was at Lake View Cemetery with Darryl Nelson, Gerald Perrin, Michael Burrows, Brian Lee, Shane Gibson and Chris Leschart serving as pallbearers; where she was laid to rest with her husband, Ray Nelson. Family and friends gathered at the C. E. Wing of Stettler United Church for a time of fellowship and refreshments prepared and served by the United Church Women. Memorial donations may be made in Gladys' name to the Stettler Health Services Foundation or the Stettler United Church. Sympathies may be forwarded to the family by signing the guestbook at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com.
Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium,
403-742-3422 entrusted with the care and arrangements