Lela Elaine Nelson

Lela Nelson passed away at her home on January 16, 2024. She was born on February 9, 1937 in Stromsburg, Nebraska to Olin and Mae Riblett. The family moved to Central City, Nebraska where Lela graduated from high school.

Lela was living in Grand Island, Nebraska when some friends arranged a blind date with a college student, Jim Nelson. It soon became apparent that they were meant for each other. They married in 1956. Lela and Jim were blessed with their first child, Joyce Ann, in 1958. After residing in Huntley and Bertrand, Nebraska the family moved to Greeley, Colorado in 1964. Lela and Jim were blessed again in 1969 with another daughter, Kendra, and again three years later with a son, Brian. Lela was primarily a homemaker, devoted to her family. As the children became older she took on a few cleaning and kitchen jobs. She eventually accepted a full time position with the University of Northern Colorado Food Services Department where she worked for twenty years, before her retirement. The job was the most enjoyable during the years the Denver Broncos used the campus for their spring training. The food service staff provided the meals for the team.

Lela supported and enjoyed her children's music and dancing activities along with bicycle racing. The entire family also enjoyed travel and camping out in their small travel trailer.

The warmth of Lela's love will never be forgotten, nor will the 67 years of marriage in which the love was just as strong on the last day as it was on the first day.

Survivors include her husband, Jim Nelson, daughters, Joyce Martin and Kendra Nelson, son Brian Nelson and granddaughter, Malerie Martin.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Allnutt Funeral Service, Macy Chapel, 6521 W. 20th Street, Greeley, Starting with a Visitation at 1pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2pm.