Karen Sue Nelson

Karen Sue Nelson, a beloved daughter, sister and friend, passed away on May 27th, 2023, at her home in Spring Hill, TN, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and joy. She was born on January 9th, 1960, in Morris, IL, where she would grow into the remarkable woman we all knew and loved. Karen was preceded in death by her father, Harold K Nelson, and mother, Betty Lou Nelson, both of Morris, Illinois. She is survived by her sister, Kimberly Kay (Nelson) Wright, Kim’s husband, Garron, and their two children, Brooks & Nelson; brother, Kenneth Emery Nelson, his wife, Peggy (Cotter) Nelson and their two children, Eric & Jessica and Jessica’s husband, David.

Professionally, Karen graduated in 1984 from Eastern Illinois University where she earned a BS in Geology. Karen excelled as a licensed Geologist for the State of Illinois. For three decades, she worked at the Environmental Protection Agency in Springfield, Illinois.

Family was the cornerstone of Karen's life. She was a devoted daughter, returning to Morris in 2016 to care for her aging parents after retiring from the State of Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Karen possessed a passionate spirit that touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her warm smile and gentle demeanor made her an instant friend to many. She had a genuine interest in people, and her ability to listen and offer comfort made her a trusted confidant. Karen had an innate talent for connecting with others and making them feel seen and valued.

Karen had a zest for life that was infectious. She embraced every moment, finding joy in the simple pleasures. Whether it was making her one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, collecting rocks & minerals, exploring new hiking trails, or gardening, she lived life to the fullest.

Karen's absence leaves a void that can never be filled. However, her memory will forever be treasured by her friends and family whose lives were forever changed by her presence. Her legacy of love, compassion, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A memorial service to celebrate Karen Sue Nelson's life will be held on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Fruland’s Funeral Home, 121 W. Jefferson St. in Morris, IL with Pastor Patrick Lohse officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Inurnment will be in Saratoga Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation https://bbrfoundation.donordrive.com/campaign/Karen-Nelson-Memorial .

Karen will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her extraordinary ability to bring light into the lives of others. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire acts of love and compassion in the world.

Rest in peace, dear Karen.
For more information, call the funeral home at 815-942-0700 or sign the online guestbook at www.frulandfuneralhome.com .