Joann Dorothy Nelson was born March 23, 1932, and passed on into eternity December 21, 2017. She was a Resident at Renewed Spirit Residential Care Home in Maplewood, MN. She passed peacefully at home. Joann was born and raised in Superior, WI and graduated from Central High School. She was a homemaker, nanny for several families, volunteer at the St. Cloud Hospital and actress performing in high school, college & community theater.

Joann was the youngest of four children, born to Alvin & Doris Fagan and a faithful wife to James Nelson (deceased 1982). She will be forever remembered by her three children: Timothy Nelson, Joni Lenzen (Ray Lenzen), Shelley Cornell (Paul Cornell) and treasured grandchildren: Stacy, Jimmy James, Jonna (Kyle), Haley (Josh), Ria (Josh), Zoe & Bailey. Beloved great grandchildren: Kenzie, Sadie, Jude, Avery, Ruby, Michael, Clark & Gabbriella along with countless other friends and family.

Earlier in her life, Joann lived for more than 20 years in St Cloud, Minnesota, close to the historic Munsinger Gardens. She loved walking to the gardens during the summer months, visiting with people and enjoying the beauty of the flowers, especially the rose gardens.

Joann had a gregarious personality touching all who knew her. Friends and family are invited to attend her visitation, Thursday, December 28th 5:00-6:30 pm & Friday, December 29th at 10 am, as well as her Celebration of Life Service, 11 am on Friday, December 29th at Downs Funeral Home,1617 N 19th St., Superior.  Lunch to follow.

All donations will be used to create a memorial garden at Renewed Spirit Residential Care Home in her honor, 319 Bellwood Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55117.