Natalie Nelson

Natalie R. Nelson
Age 62

MAHTOMEDI, MN - Natalie Ruth (Winkelman) Nelson passed away peacefully in her home April 24, 2017 after an overwhelming battle with pancreatic cancer. Born December 25, 1954 in Fairmont, MN to Stanley and Mary-Lou (Hammer) Winkelman, she was the oldest of six. Natalie was devoted to her work as an Occupational Therapist, and was one who demonstrated true compassion to each of her patients. She was an avid gardener, who found beauty in life's simple treasures. Natalie found her highest sense of joy in togetherness, whether with family or with friends - never missing a birthday or holiday and continuously planning for the next celebration with those she adored. She was a loving mother to her five surviving children; Shane (Callie) Nelson, Shenoa (Eric) Zierden, Kailen Nelson, Kira (Travis) Peterson, Ashley Nelson, and seven grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother Mary-Lou (Winkelman) Oldenburg, brothers Nathan (Deb Bryant) Winkelman, Wayne (Jenny) Winkelman, Warren (Deborah) Winkelman, her sister Gwen (Todd) Washburn, along with many nieces and nephews. She will be laid to rest next to her father Stanley Winkelman, and brother Vance Winkelman who preceded her in death. She is also preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Leonard and Ruth Hammer, paternal grandparents Herman and Otillia Winkelman, step-father John Oldenburg, aunt Burnette Bowen and aunt Velma Winkelman. Beautiful from the inside out, she will forever be missed, but always thought of with every blooming purple petal.
Memorial service will be held at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi, MN on Friday, May 5 at 11 AM with visitation one hour prior.