Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Medora Nelson-Ferris
1979 - 2025
Medora Nelson-Ferris Obituary
December 25, 1979 - October 8, 2025
Medora Napea Nelson-Ferris, aged forty-five, left this earthly realm on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 in La Crosse, Wisconsin while in the Gundersen Hospital ICU with head injuries sustained September 26 in a hit & run auto accident.
Medora was born in Madison, Wisconsin on December 25, 1979 to Betty Ferris and Warren Nelson. She grew up on the shores of Lake Superior, in a log house on the Sioux River outside Washburn, Wisconsin. She graduated from Washburn High School in 1998 and received her Bachelor's in English Literature from UW-La Crosse in 2008.
Her adventurous spirit led her to travel widely, including extended trips backpacking around Europe and the Pacific Coast Trail. After a five year residence in Bend, Oregon, Medora and her long-time partner Thomas Bauer returned to settle in La Crosse. She found her perfect professional fit in the La Crosse Public Library, focusing on creative children's programming and utilizing her artistic upbringing and special gifts connecting with others. She was a cherished member of the community.
A deep love of nature led Medora to establish 'Fish Camp' on the Sioux River family property up north where she spent much of her free time in spring, summer and fall. It became her favorite place to unwind and enjoy the remoteness and seclusion of camping under trees and stars, by the tranquil river of her childhood.
Medora is survived by her husband Thomas Bauer, parents Betty Ferris and Warren Nelson, brother Rowan Nelson-Ferris, and dog Oats, as well as cousins Leslie, Jenifer, Mason, Ira, Eli and all her extended family, beloved friends and wonderful library colleagues.
The family is grateful for the excellent care Medora received during her twelve days in the Gundersen Hospital ICU.
A public service for Medora will be held from 4pm-6pm on October 27, 2025 at the La Crosse Public Library, 800 Main St, La Crosse, Wisconsin.
A future celebration of Medora's life up on Lake Superior will be announced at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Medora Nelson-Ferris
Memories and Condolences
for Medora Nelson-Ferris
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Medora Nelson-Ferris's name
How to support Medora's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Medora Nelson-Ferris's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
