Carla L. Nelson

Carla L. Nelson, 74, of Newman Grove, NE, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the Boone County Health Center in Albion, NE.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church, Newman Grove, NE with Rev. Becky Beckmann and Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Burial will be at Hope Cemetery, Newman Grove, NE. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the church.

In honor of Carla, you are welcomed to wear Christmas attire if you would like.

Levander Funeral Home of Newman Grove, NE is in charge of the arrangements.

Carla Lanette Nelson, daughter of Chester and Delores (Halverson) Vaage, was born on September 8, 1951, in Newman Grove, NE. She was baptized on December 3, 1951, and later confirmed in her faith on April 3, 1966, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Carla spent her early years attending District #68 in Madison County before continuing onto Newman Grove Public School, where she graduated with the class of 1969.

On July 12, 1986, Carla married Craig A. Nelson, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Newman Grove. Together, they built a life filled with hard work, love, and devotion. They were blessed with three daughters. The family made their home outside of Newman Grove, where she was a lifelong resident. Carla's most important work was within her home. She also worked in the community as a school secretary and a bank teller.

Carla was a woman of faith, first a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church and later, after her marriage, a member of Zion Lutheran Church. Her faith guided her life, shaping her as a mother, grandmother, wife, and friend.

Family was everything to Carla. She adored her grandchildren, their Mimi, and could often be found attending their events. Countless sleepovers always featuring the "monster game", FaceTimes of noses and ceilings, and visits just because, were had. Her daughters could always count on her at the drop of a hat. She loved being outdoors, planting flowers, and tending to her yard. Her home was her canvas-each season brought thoughtful decorations, especially at Christmas, reflecting her creativity and love for making spaces feel special. Carla could often be found in her sewing room quilting. She enjoyed shopping, making sure the birds were well fed, and a good rocking chair.

Carla will be remembered for her comforting nature, her unwavering love for her family, and her gift for making ordinary days feel extra special.

Carla is survived by her husband: Craig Nelson of Newman Grove, NE; two daughters: Callie (Eric) Haselhorst of Elgin, NE; Courtney (Dustin) Martin of Albion, NE; six grandchildren: Cayden, Camryn, and Colbyn Martin of Albion, NE; Bryce, Alyssa, and Kylee Haselhorst of Elgin, NE; sister: Chawna Vaage of Newman Grove, NE; and brother-in-law: Paul Dohmen of Columbus, NE.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter: Crystal Nelson; sister: Charlotte Vaage; and sister-in-law: Joyce Dohmen