Nelson, Mary Kay Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law and friend passed away Monday morning, July 18 having spent her two last days on earth at home with her family. Family and faith were at the core of Mary Kay's being and focus in life. Her family life growing up on a farm near Kensington, Minnesota provided not only many rich memories, but also formed the foundational values which she created for her children and grandchildren. Mary Kay attended Augsburg College where she met Ron, her husband of 48 years and best friend. Daughters Kristy (husband Brian DePaulis) and Becky (husband Glenn Jacobson) had a very special mother-daughter relationship which over the years became an even more special bond and friendship. Nothing in her life could surpass time spent with her grandchildren (Sophia, Riley, and Marissa) attending their many activities and sharing life joys around their homes and Lake Geneva. Mary Kay and Ron have been Minnesota Twins season ticket holders for 30 years, during highs and lows, with particular excitement in seeing two World Series game 7 victories. Mary Kay waged an 11-year battle with leukemia with courage, grace, and a steadfast faith, all of which became a lasting example for family and friends. Other survivors include sisters Betty Wetterling and Elma (Myron) Lofquist, brother James (Marlene) Belgum, brothers-in-law Dean (Kathy) Bengston and Jim (Ruth) Nelson, sisters-in-law Judy (Gary) Martens and Karen Nelson, and many special nephews, nieces, and friends. Preceding her in death were parents Edwin and Beatrice Belgum, sister Lois Bengston, and brother-in-law Jerry Nelson. A celebration of Mary Kay's life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 26 at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, 1575 Charlton St., West St. Paul with visitation at 1:00 p.m. Refreshments and a time for visiting with family and friends will be available at the conclusion of the service. Memorials should be directed to Masonic Cancer Center (University of Minnesota Leukemia Research), St. Stephen's Lutheran Church Foundation, or to donor's choice. Natural Burial and Cremation 651-457-7938