Kenneth "Mike" Nelson

Kenneth Michael ‘Mike’ Nelson May 10, 1947 - December 26, 2022 Mike passed away peacefully at home, with his loving wife Patsy and sons Eric and Jeff at his side. Mike was born in Ogden, Utah, to his parents Kenneth Peter ‘Kelly’ Nelson and Ann LaVere Nelson, on May 10, 1947. He lived 3 years in Germany when his Dad was stationed there, and then in Tacoma, WA, growing up and completing school in University Place. Mike is survived by his wife Patsy of 52 years, and sons, Eric Nelson and daughters Hazel Anne and Maribelle, in Franklin, TN, and Doctors Jeff (and Grace) Nelson and their children Amelia and Otis, in Lakeland, TN. Mike was very proud and happy to have his four amazing grandchildren to love and enjoy. Mike is also survived by his three sisters, Kathy (Wayne) Gillman and family in Bountiful, Utah, Kelly Ann Angus and family in Bothell, WA, and Kim (Jim) Harston and family in West Richland, WA. A sister-in-law, Maxine (Garry) Haner and family in Tacoma, WA, and brother-in-law, Dr. Michael Thompson in West Seattle, WA, who was a best friend and partner in crime, fondly nicknamed The Dude. Mike is also survived by many nieces, and nephews, and cousins. Mike was very active in sports and played football, basketball and golf through high school, graduating from Curtis High School in 1965. He attended Centralia Community College for one year playing basketball there, transferred to Washington State University for two years and then spent his senior year at Eastern Washington University, graduating in 1969. Mike entered the Army Reserves following graduation and completed his basic training in Shreveport, LA. In June of 1970 he started working for Safeco Insurance in Claims and soon became a manager. Mike and Patsy were married on July 3, 1970, in Tacoma, WA, and after several moves, settled in Wenatchee, in 1973, to work and later raise their family. Mike loved his family unconditionally and was a best friend to many. He enjoyed many years of running and completed 3 marathons and numerous 5 K runs over the years. He was a lifelong golfer and shared his enthusiasm and love of the game with his sons who continue to play today with fond memories of playing together and trying to beat Dad’s score. Mike also enjoyed fishing and spending family time at Lake Chelan. After retirement Mike and Patsy enjoyed numerous cross-country trips in their motorhome, visiting family, friends. and 48 states, with plans to ‘one day’ make an Alaska trip. Mike was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, and is greatly missed by all. The family sincerely thanks the Hospice Services of Confluence Health and all of their kind, gentle and compassionate team members. A Memorial Service for Mike will be held on July 6, at 2 p.m., at Jones and Jones Funeral Home in Wenatchee, WA. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to the Hospice Services at Confluence Health, Wenatchee, WA.

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Kenneth "Mike" Nelson

May 10, 1947 - December 26, 2022