Shirley Nelson

Shirley Katherine Nelson was a beloved grandmother, mother, wife, and friend during her 87 years of life. She passed away peacefully in the afternoon hours of Monday, May 22, 2023, at Good Samaritan Society – St. Vincent’s in Bismarck, North Dakota. 

Services are currently pending.

She was born on June 18, 1935, in Bismarck, North Dakota to Samuel and Enola (Lundin) Eck. She was the second of six children and she graduated from Bismarck public high school in 1953. She went on to attend Colorado State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology. In 1959, she married Ted Nelson, and they resided in the Twin Cities where she raised Susan, James, and Darcie Nelson. 

Shirley loved growing beautiful flowers and learning new things about gardening. She and her husband owned gift shops and a children’s clothing store in West St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1988, Shirley and Ted moved to start a new adventure in Seattle, Washington. She was also known for her love of sewing and crafts. She was very involved in her community, and she volunteered to teach art classes at the assisted living facility where her husband lived in Seattle. In June of 2019, she moved back to Bismarck to be closer to her family. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Enola Eck; brothers, Dr. Charles Eck and James Eck; sister, Virginia Eck; husband of 52 years, Ted Nelson; and her youngest daughter, Darcie Cox. 

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Susan (Jeremy) Schneider, Cold Spring, MN; son, James (Alexandra) Nelson, Chicago, IL; son-in-law, Dale Cox, Bellingham, WA; grandchildren, Jason Schneider, Nathan (Hannah) Schneider, Gabriella Nelson, Isabella Nelson, Reese Cox, and Alden Cox; sister, Enola Cassel; brother, Donavan Eck; and her many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Special thanks to the staff at St Vincent’s and to Sanford Hospital for the loving and attentive care she received during her last days on earth. Her final resting spot will be at Carson Community Cemetery next to her husband. Later, there will be a private family interment.

We ask that you please send memorials in honor of Shirley Nelson to your favorite cause that will make the world a better place.