Irene F. Nelson, age 95 of Hopkins, passed away on January 13, 2023. A Time of Gathering will take place in honor of Irene on Thursday, February 2, 2023 from 11:00 AM – 1 PM at Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home, 833 S Marschall Road, Shakopee. Irene will be laid to rest with her husband Philbert at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.
On March 8, 1927, parents Martin and Mary (Wimmer) Wandersheid celebrated the birth of their 8 th child, Irene Frances in Forest City Township, MN. She grew up in the Forest City area, and graduated from Litchfield High School, where she enjoyed singing in the school choir.
After graduating high school, Irene met Philbert Nelson, they were married in Hutchinson, MN on June 24, 1950. Philbert and Irene’s union was blessed with 3 children, Ronnie, Dennis, and Cheryl. They made many fond memories spending time together as a family, whether it be fishing, attending the Hutchinson Water Carnival, or watching the Hopkins Raspberry Parade. When she wasn’t spending time with her family, Irene worked at a company manufacturing computer components, and enjoyed her time serving as a lunch lady at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Hopkins.
In September of 1991, Irene began a new chapter in her life when her husband Philbert passed away. Fiercely independent, Irene continued to live independently until the time of her passing. As time went on, she became “granny” to many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren! She loved them all and was proud to hear about their lives and accomplishments. When she wasn’t spoiling them, she could be found crocheting or perfecting one of her liquid embroidery projects. She also loved to stay busy cooking and baking, canning salsa, and making soup stock.
Irene is survived by her daughter, Cheryl (Allen) Elzea; grandsons, Jason (Robin) and Dana (Micaela) Elzea; great-grandchildren, Garrett (Erin) and Kalie Elzea; great-great grandchildren, Kayden, Abel, Liam, and Luca; other relatives and friends.
She is greeted in Heaven by her husband, Philbert; sons, Ronnie and Dennis; parents, Martin and Mary Wanderscheid; and 8 brothers and sisters.
Special Thank You to Park Nicollet Hospice group and Sholom Care Facility for being part of mom’s journey.
