Marilyn P. Nelson, age 96, of Reedsburg, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 25, 2024, surrounded by family.  She was born on July 12, 1928, in Racine, WI, the daughter of Peter and Dorothy (Sorenson) Elsner.

Marilyn was a graduate of Horlick High School in Racine.  She started her career as a switchboard telephone operator for Bell Telephone in Racine. She was a Nurse’s Aid for several years in Racine area nursing homes. She also fostered over 15 infants and cared for them until homes were found.  Marilyn loved babies and had a nurturing presence.  She lived in Indianapolis with her family briefly before moving back to Racine for a time. Marilyn moved to Reedsburg in 1992.

Family was important to Marilyn.  She cherished traveling with her family, especially her trip to Italy to visit her son, Peter. Marilyn enjoyed puzzles, was crafty and played a competitive game of Aggravation.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Peter and Terry and brother, Richard Elsner.

Marilyn is survived by her children: Lynn Purtee of Reedsburg, Judi Hallett of Bradenton, FL, Wendy (Gene) Savona of Bradenton, FL, Brian Purtee of Tustin, CA, Michael (Nicoleta) Purtee of Salem, WI, Matthew Purtee (Sandy Hopkins) Tomah; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; sister, Gloria Nielson of Racine; several nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends.

 A memorial service for Marilyn Nelson will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at St. John Ev. Lutheran Church, Reedsburg, with Pastor Shelley Nelson officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 1:00 PM until the time of the service at the church. If desired, memorials may be made to St. John Ev. Lutheran Church in Marilyn’s name.