Kathleen M Nelson

Kathleen M Nelson

October 08, 1962 - June 20, 2023

Obituary

MADISON - Kathleen Marie “Kathy” Nelson, age 60, of Madison, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes in her home on Tuesday, June 20, 2023.


Kathy was born on Oct. 8, 1962, to Thomas and Edith (Biegel) Nelson in Tomah. After Kathy graduated from Tomah Senior High School in 1980, she went on to study art and communications at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.


For the last 30 years Kathy worked for the University of Wisconsin - Madison, most recently at the School of Medicine & Public Health, also the School of Veterinary Medicine and the Waisman Center. Kathy enjoyed working with medical professionals, coordinating events for continuing education.


In 2014, Kathy met the love of her life, Raja Muhammad Hassan. They were married in Madison in November 2017. Kathy and Raja enjoyed sharing and learning about each other’s heritage, resulting in Kathy developing a taste for Pakistani food.


Kathy had a passion for animals throughout her life. She and Raja not only cared for their dog, Bella, but also dog sat for many other dogs at their home. She was passionate about her faith in God and serving at New Life Church of Madison on the council, also by teaching, speaking and being a part of the puppet ministry. Kathy touched many lives through her work and church, and through her many friendships.


Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Edith Nelson; sister, LaVonne Mackin; and nephews, Timothy Nelson and Christopher Mackin. Kathy is survived by her husband, Raja; brothers, LaVerne (Darlene) Nelson and Gary (Peggy) Nelson; and sisters, Jean (Tom) Groppoli and Nancy Bremmer. Kathy was always close with her family, often organizing family get togethers. Kathy enjoyed being an aunt to her nieces and nephews and loved spending time with their children.


A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 26, 2023, at New Life Lutheran Church, 7564 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, with Pastor Heather Hayward officiating. Burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery in Tomah, Wis. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 25, 2023, and at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420


Events

25
Visitation
Sun Jun 25, 2023 @ 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
26
Visitation
Mon Jun 26, 2023 @ 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM CDT
New Life Church (Madison) • 7564 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison, WI 53718
26
Funeral Service
Mon Jun 26, 2023 @ 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM CDT
New Life Church (Madison) • 7564 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison, WI 53718
26
Graveside Service
Mon Jun 26, 2023 @ 3:00 PM - 3:15 PM CDT
Oak Grove Cemetery (Tomah) • -, Tomah, WI 54660
P
Punhal
Other •
Raja & Kathy are closer than family and more than friends. We took a trip couple year ago to Niagara Falls and despite she broke her toe nail while walking down the stairs, she never let the smile wipe away and made sure everyone is enjoying. My last conversation was a month ago I was texting with Kathy to decide surprise gift for Raja. Our last meeting was with her when she hosted my parents from Pakistan for dinner and tea. She did everything to make my parents feel comfortable. The last beautiful memory that I have is Kathy playing piano for my parents at her home. She brought laughter, kindness, and unwavering love into every life she touched. Though our hearts ache, let us find solace in the precious memories we shared. May Kathy's spirit forever guide us, as we carry forward her legacy of love. Hugs to Raja
VM
Vicki Lamb McFall
Other •
Dearest Kathy, it's too soon. I'm so glad you crossed my life path. Although life took us forward on our own paths, I've always kept you close at heart. I'm so glad we reconnected here in Madison. Here's one of my favorite memories. May you rest in peace.
TJ
The boys of The Embassy. Todd, Kevin, Joe, Howie Jim & John
Other •
Our warmest condolences,
KP
Kishia Peters
Other •
Kathy was the most vibrant person I've ever met. Her eyes sparkled and her smile warmed the room whenever she was present. She had a radiant way of sharing God's Love for everyone. Our entire church would wait with excited anticipation when she was scheduled to deliver the message on a Sunday morning because we knew it would be filled with wonderful stories of her life. My favorite memory of Kathy was on her wedding day. As if it was even possible for Kathy to be more vibrant or have more sparkle in her eyes, she somehow did as she walked down the isle to marry Raja. One year for my birthday, Kathy took my husband and two youngest sons boating on Lake Monona. She had baked me a cake as a surprise. It was a chocolate chip cake and it was the best cake I have ever had! I always meant to get that recipe. At New Life we were taught us to see God in people. Kathy truly was someone you could see God in. She left a joyful imprint on everyone she met and she will be truly missed. On earth she was a brightly shining little Gospel light, in Heaven, I'm certain she is one of the brightest shining stars.
LS
Lori Scarlett
Other •
I was so very sorry to hear about Kathy's passing. I've known Kathy for many years as her veterinarian, but also as a friend. I always looked forward to taking CE courses at the vet school, knowing I'd see Kathy and have a chance to chat and catch up. My thoughts are with Raja and Bella - her memories will live on. Sincerely, Lori Scarlett, DVM
TH
Tracey Hokanson
Other •
My deepest condolences to Raja. Kathy was a beautiful person. Kathy and Raja cared for our golden retriever “Nelson” when we went on vacation. He loved going to their house and getting to play with Bella. I never worried when Nelly was at Kathy’s. She will be deeply missed. Hugs to Raja ~Tracey and John Hokanson

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