Luann Pattyn "Bonnie" Nelson

Bonnie, 87, of Billings, passed away at her home on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010.

She was born in Sun City, Kan., the daughter of William and Grace Brown. Bonnie married Leo Pattyn on June 12, 1948. She and Leo had a daughter and a son together. Bonnie lost Leo to cancer in 1956. She later met Keith Nelson and, on July 19, 1958, they were married and they had a daughter together. Keith passed away on Dec. 26, 2001.

Bonnie was a teacher for 38 years and she found great joy teaching and being around her students. She retired at the age of 70 years old.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Grace; both her husbands, Leo and Keith; her sisters, Bea, Ida Mae, Georgie, Ruby, Alice; and her brothers, Dean, Gene, Lawrence; and her son-in-law, Leonard.

Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Dorothy (Leonard) Rogina, Deb (Tom) Shupak and her son Leon (Teri) Pattyn. She is also survived by grandchildren, Sandi and Nikki Rogina, Warren and Bud Pattyn, Jeremy Shupak and David Rogina.

Bonnie's family would like to express their sincere thanks to Dr. Vincent and his nurse Joann, also Mandy and Jamie and the rest of the wonderful staff at Rocky Mountain Hospice for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, "Mom" was very fond of the HRDC Youth Program and the Growth Thru Arts Program at HRDC 7, N. 31st St., Billings, MT 59103.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, at Cremation & Funeral Gallery. Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Lodge Grass Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent online to www.cfgbillings.com.

BONNIE NELSON