Colleen Marie O'Day Nelson

Celebrating a Life of Generosity and Determination
Colleen Marie O'Day Nelson was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother who approached every day with unwavering determination to enrich the lives of those around her. Her greatest joy came from giving to others, a trait that left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and community. Sadly, Colleen's life was cut short on November 25, 2025, when she passed away at her home in Burnsville due to a brain aneurysm.
Born on March 5, 1961, in Merrill, Wisconsin, Colleen spent most of her childhood in Marquette, Michigan, where she embraced her identity as a proud Yooper Girl. It was in Marquette that she met Kirk Nelson, the love of her life. The couple married on November 12, 1982, and together built a family, raising three daughters: Erin Nelson Rodriguez of Indianapolis, Kristi Lee Samarasinghe (Mark) of Apple Valley, Minnesota, and Meghan Marie Nelson, who sadly predeceased her mother in 2018 after a nine-year battle with cancer.
Colleen and Kirk owned and operated Nelson Chevrolet in Negaunee, Michigan, where they also made their home. After selling the dealership, the family moved to Rio Rancho, New Mexico in 2000. However, longing for the familiar landscapes of the Midwest, they relocated to Westfield, Indiana in 2003. In 2024, Colleen and Kirk settled in Burnsville, Minnesota to be closer to their daughter Kristi, son-in-law Mark, and their youngest grandchild, Mason. Colleen's other grandchildren-Jayden, Lucas, Leena, and Grayson-reside in Indiana.
Although Colleen never received professional training, she possessed a remarkable eye for design, transforming any living space into a showcase. She became a self-taught finish carpenter, adding a distinct touch to her interior design projects. Colleen's creative spirit was further reflected in her love for arts and crafts, often gifting homemade quilts and cross-stitched wall hangings to those she cherished.
Colleen was a tireless worker, and her dedication extended to caring for her husband Kirk full-time. She refused to let his physical challenges limit their lives, tending to his every need and making his well-being her primary focus.
Colleen Marie O'Day Nelson will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family and friends, her exceptional work ethic, and, most importantly, her love of life. Thank you, Colleen, thank you Mom, thank you Grammy, for the countless ways you gave of yourself and enriched the lives of everyone around you.
A memorial service will be held on a later date in Burnsville, Minnesota. The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com