Dorothy Nelson

God's Beautiful daughter Dorothy Nelson, 74 of Phoenix passed away early Monday afternoon surrounded in love with her family by her side. She leaves her devoted husband, John; 3 daughters, Christine Gapko Aguilera, Karen Gapko Caursone, and Kelli Nelson Aud; 3 stepchildren, Kevin Nelson , Scott Nelson and Julie Nelson Mauer; and 5 grandchildren, Vanessa, Kristine, Danielle, Bradley and Braedon. Her son Alan Gapko preceded her in death in 1992. Dorothy was born in Milwaukee, WI and moved to AZ in the mid 1970's. In Wisconsin, She was extremely active in her local community, spearheading various projects and events. She organized one of the first glass and newspaper recycling centers, in Racine. She was active in the local Women's club and leader of countless Fundraisers, from a bike safety rodeo to the Annual community Christmas party on which she was the committee chairperson. Dorothy was instrumental in changing the long distance telephone service to local toll free calling with the Milwaukee Metro Plan. Her influence and drive as a community leader earned her the award and coveted title "Woman of the Year". She was honored for her accomplishments by WI state Senator William Proxmire. She was a strong, determined, very beautiful woman, who will be dearly missed by family, friends and especially by the love of her life, her husband of 42 years. Mother, Wife, Grandmother, dear friend -your faith in Christ's promise of eternal life was steadfast. Enjoy God's heavenly Kingdom until we meet again. A visitation will be held Friday, July 26, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary, 719 N. 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ. 85009, with a funeral service following at 2:00 p.m.