Myrtle Nelson

Myrtle Myrella Wing Nelson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, was sung into Heaven by family members on April 11, 2008, at Cedar Lake Village, Olathe, Kan. She was welcomed by her Lord and Savior the way she lived her life; in faith, joy and gratitude.

Myrtle Wing was born in Otsdawa, N.Y., to Kenneth and Mabel (Gardner) Wing on Feb. 9, 1918. She taught in rural schools before entering Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, from which she graduated in 1942. She married Leon Nelson in May 1942. She loved serving her Lord as a pastor’s wife, mother, choir director, Sunday School teacher, musician, in  seven church pastorates, and 25 interims, where she inspired, mentored and encouraged people in all walks of Godly living.

With gratitude to God she will be remembered by her husband Leon of 65 years, their six children, Carol (Tom) Williams, Larry (Nancy) Nelson, Gerald (Pam) Nelson, Lu (Tim) Drysdale, Mark Nelson, and Ken (Barb) Nelson. There are 11 grandchildren, Carey, Stephanie, Ryan, Ken, Laurie, Michael, David, Sarah, Mindy, Jennifer, Kyle, one great-grandchild, Ryan Jr., and a multitude of friends. She is survived by two sisters, Mildred Martin and Charlotte Grant.

God blessed Mom’s heart’s desire to have a large family. She delighted in caring, and making simple experiences special. She was devoted to keeping family and friends connected through innumerable letters with clippings, and gracious hospitality. Everyone looked forward to her musical birthday and anniversary phone calls.

She loved God, taught us to love God and to appreciate God’s beautiful world. We have experienced the power of her faithful prayers. Her smile, joy, and playful teasing will always be remembered and kept alive in her family and friends.

A celebration of her life will be held at First Baptist Church, Ottawa, Kan., at 7 p.m. on April 15. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be given to First Baptist Church, Ottawa, in honor of Myrtle Nelson