Elizabeth J. Nelson

Elizabeth J. Nelson “Betty” She touched the lives of all who knew her and built a life centered on family, faith, and service to others. Her legacy of love, generosity, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. Elizabeth “Betty” Nelson, 94, of Vancouver, WA, passed peacefully, surrounded by her family, on August 10, 2025. With grateful hearts, we honor her life. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother and a beloved friend to many. She was proceeded in death by her husband of 66 years, Ben, and her parents and siblings. She is survived by her son, Bob Nelson (dauther-in-law, Carie), her daughter Jan Nelson-Winstead (son-in-law, Tim), her grandchildren, Robert Nelson, Christopher Winstead, Jon Nelson, Chase Winstead, Catherine Nelson, and Mason Winstead and her five great grandchildren. Betty Nelson was born and raised in Minnesota, the daughter of Gregor and Sophia Useldinger. She was the third of six children, whose family owned a farm, she possessed an unwavering work ethic. Her mother shared a story how when Betty was young, she had to drive the horse and cart to town for medicine and took care of her whole family during a terrible sickness. Grandma Sophia always remarked that Betty was the toughest of them all. She graduated from Sacred Heart Catholic School and become a proud and devout Catholic. In 1950 she was married to the love of her life, Ben, and came out west for their honeymoon and loved it so much that they decided that this was their new home. They love spending time with their large families. After ten years of marriage, they adopted their son, Bob, while living in California, fulfilling the dream of becoming parents.They knew they wanted another child, so around two years later after moving back to Vancouver, WA, they adopted their daughter Jan. She dedicated her life to protecting and caring for her family and provided a loving home. Betty learned to be an excellent Scandinavian chef, renowned for her potato pancakes and Lefsa. Betty enjoyed various activities throughout her life including card games, bowling, dancing, camping, traveling and visiting the casinos, and was fierce competitor. Betty was always welcoming to everyone and dedicated her life to caring for others. After her kids were old enough, Betty worked as the Head Seamstress at Janzten Knitting Mills, Vancouver, and then as an Evergreen Public Schools Bus Driver until she retired in 1992. Betty and Ben spent the next 22 years as snowbirds going to Arizona in the winters and other adventures. Her grandchildren were lucky to have had her for so long, celebrating all their milestone in their lives. For the last three years, Betty lived in an independent living community making so many friends, participating in all the activities and events giving her a vibrant life. Betty was loved dearly and will be missed every day.

Elizabeth J. Nelson

February 8, 1931 - August 11, 2025