Elsie (Kenney) Nelson

Elsie (Kenney) Nelson, a vibrant soul who brought joy and laughter to all who knew her, passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 76. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1948, Elsie lived a life marked by adventure, unwavering optimism, and deep connections.

Her life was filled with a love for family, a sentiment that began in childhood. Elsie cherished the monthly summer day trips her father would take the family on. They would all pile into the car and head down the coast to places like Santa Cruz, Carmel, and Monterey for picnics on the beach and dips in the ocean. These happy memories were a theme throughout her life. In later years, she continued to explore the coast with her sisters, Mary and Therese, visiting Catholic Missions and trying new restaurants in Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Carmel. These trips were always filled with fun conversations and laughter. She also loved a good mystery, enjoying Matlock, Dateline, and other "whodunnit" shows, a fun tradition she shared with her niece over snacks and champagne.

A beloved aunt known for her upbeat spirit and fun-loving nature, she approached life with an adventurous heart, whether it was camping under the stars, trying new restaurants, enjoying a bit of gambling, or simply spending time with her cherished friends and family. A true coffee lover, Elsie could be found with a cup in hand, hot or cold, throughout the day. Even when faced with the challenges of cancer and COPD, she maintained an optimistic outlook, inspiring those around her with her resilience.

Elsie's loyalty and care extended to everyone in her life. She lovingly cared for her eldest brother during his battle with cancer and remained a lifelong friend to her previous husbands. Elsie took immense pride in the lives of her nieces, nephew, and great nieces and nephews celebrating their achievements and offering constant encouragement.

Her dedication to family was evident in her willingness to follow her siblings as they moved from California and Nevada to Idaho and back to Nevada.

She found great joy in her work, starting her career with IBM right out of high school. Elsie retired from IBM after more than 25 years, but her love for social interaction led her to various part-time roles where she effortlessly made new friends. She also had a special fondness for Raley's soft cookies, a small pleasure that brought her simple happiness.

Among her many passions, Elsie loved to bowl and was a proud member of a league. She had a special place in her heart for Tabu perfume, always choosing the black bottle, and her favorite dessert, lemon meringue pie, which her mother made for her birthday.

Elsie's positive love and support will be greatly missed by all. She is survived by her loving sister, Therese Incrocci, nieces Laurie Cooper, Lisa (Rob) Devaughn, Susan Foster, Ann Dunn, and Jill (Josh) Leber, her nephew George Kenney, great nieces and nephews: Joseph Cooper, Jordan Cooper, Noah Cooper, John & Kathleen Weisser, Ashley Bauman, Cody & Maizy Dunn, Austin Leber, Cadence Leber, and Joshua Leber, her former husband Reggie Nelson, and her beloved dog, Koda, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Elsie's former husband, Reggie, who consistently checked in on her, helped with groceries, and accompanied her to appointments, providing invaluable support and company.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Elsie Kenney; her brother George Kenney, sister Mary Kenney, and sister-in-law Donna Kenney, great nephew Bradley Kenney, and her first husband, Pete Van Newaal.