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1950 - 2013

BORN

1950

DIED

2013

Bobbie Nelson Obituary

Bobbie Nelson
June 18, 1950 - December 5, 2013
Resident of Santa Cruz, CA
Bobbie Nelson passed away on December 5, 2013 at her home in Santa Cruz, after a valiant 4 year battle with Cancer. She was surrounded by family and friends. Bobbie is survived by her husband David Nelson and son Marc Nelson of Santa Cruz, mother Zel Longacre of Aptos and sister Gaye Dabalos of San Jose. Bobbie was predeceased by her father, Robert Longacre.
Born, Bobbie Jo Longacre, June 18, 1950, in Fresno California, she moved with her family to Aptos in 1958. Bobbie graduated from Watsonville High School and then worked retail in downtown Santa Cruz. She was the owner of Pants Plus in Santa Cruz from 1980 to spring of 1989.
Bobbie met her sweet husband and best buddy, Dave "Taz" Nelson in 1979, the two married May 22, 1982. They shared a passion for classic cars, street rods and were part of many street car organizations. They both were key organizers of the famous "Beach Street Revival" gatherings in downtown Santa Cruz. Bobbie and Dave's son Marc was born on May 8, 1983 and was the best blessing ever for the couple.
Bobbie discovered her passion for Real Estate Sales in 1994 when she began a stellar 19 year career partnering with her Mother, Zel Longacre, Broker owner of Longacre Real Estate. She started off selling homes for her favorite client; father, Robert Longacre who was an Architect, Developer and Builder, among many other clients.
Bobbie was a dynamic leader and very active Santa Cruz, Capitola and Aptos community member. Bobbie served as a volunteer for over 15 years for the Aptos Fourth of July Parade. Bobbie served as the Capitola-Soquel Chamber President, Santa Cruz County Association of Realtors President, Local Women's Council of Realtors President, and National Women's Council of Realtors President. She also served in board positions on the California Association of Realtors and National Association of Realtors. She was active politically; advocating for fair mortgage practices, the homeowners tax exemption and first time home buyers. Bobbie was a recent advocate and fund raiser for the Cancer Center at the Palo Alto Medical Foundation.
Bobbie was a vibrant person, full of life and an inspiration to all people whose lives she touched. Her leadership, humorous approach, and zest for life will be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 11, 2014 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM, at the Mid-County Senior Center at 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola, California.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Jan. 7, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Bobbie Nelson

17 Entries

Colleen Wallau

February 19, 2014

With great sadness in my heart, but happiness in having known Bobbie, the light of your spirit will live on...

Linda Yentsch

February 18, 2014

I just felt my heart drop... only learned of Bobbies passing thru internet. She was a great leader and so much fun!!
She taught me ...Open the book and take a look!!!
I am so sad for all who loved her, including myself.. She is always in our hearts.

Candy Peak

February 13, 2014

So sad to hear this news! Bobbie was always so kind and uplifting in our group. A true professional and a wonderful, inspiring person. I will miss seeing your glowing face at our WCR meetings! God bless you.

Toni Lane

January 12, 2014

Bobbie was an amazing vibrant woman so full of life and always smiling. An honor to call her my friend. You will be missed girlfriend. Dance on until we meet again.

Mary L. Camera

January 11, 2014

BJ, it was an honor knowing you. You were the party in our lives. Rest in peace, my friend.

Barbara Palazola

January 11, 2014

Bobbie Jo welcomed all into her life, her home, her heart. My life is better because of her. Condolences to her family and friends.

Sabrina and paris Shewfelt

January 11, 2014

You always gave me deep fun loving belly laughs, yet always managed to be a successful realtor/ sisterhood friend in the business. I send you hugs and comfort in heaven where you can now rest. I love you and admire your stregnth and courage, you leave the world a better place??

Dee Buckelew

January 10, 2014

Bobbie was a ray of sunshine and she touched us all. I will miss you so much, but I know you are up in Heaven with God, looking down on us.

Martha Graham-Waldon

January 10, 2014

It was my pleasure & honor to have worked with Bobbie at the Sentinel for many years. She was a woman of great integrity & a pleasure to be around. My deep condolences go out to Zel, Bobbie's sister and her husband and son. Many blessings to you all.

Sandy Mason

January 9, 2014

What a woman!

Cheri Lucas-Vessey

January 8, 2014

Ah Bobbie Jo, I can hear your laugh and feel your hug! See ya later!

Nancy Domich

January 8, 2014

Bobbie was a light and a ray of sunshine. I admired her leadership and dedication. She loved her family and we who were fortunate enough to have know her were blessed. My deepest condolences to her family. Miss you Bobbie!

Joseph Duncan

January 8, 2014

Thoughts and prayers to the Nelson and Longacre families

Larry Myers

January 7, 2014

Bobbie.....R.I.P.

Jean Smith

January 7, 2014

Bobbie Jo was the best of the best. Love to Dave and Mark.

Julie & Pinky Cecil

January 7, 2014

Our Love & prayers are with the Nelson family. She was special.