Faye Irene Nelsen, 71

Faye Irene Nelsen died on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009, at Bonner General Hospital in Sandpoint, Idaho, surrounded by her family. She was 71.

Faye was born on Nov. 28, 1937, in Spokane, Wash. She was the oldest child of Fay and Kathleen Rasmussen. She was proceeded in death by her parents, her brother Don, and two infant siblings.

Faye met the love of her life in Heron, Mont., Wade Nelsen. They were married on June 28, 1954 in Polson, Mont. Throughout Faye and Wade’s 55 years together, they traveled and  lived throughout the Northwest and southwestern United States as well as abroad, including Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. Together they have four children, Jerry, Terry, Susan and Sandra.

She was passionate about her family and in providing a warm, nurturing home regardless of where “home” may have been. Other passions included gardening, cooking, crafts and entertaining, always with an open door. She took special pleasure in sharing family traditions, stories and childhood memories. As the matriarch of the family her memory was astounding in recalling people, places, special events and most importantly family history.

Faye was well known for her huge heart, quick wit and her stubborn Irish determination. Her happiest times were spent surrounded by her extended family and friends, especially her grand and great grand babies.

Faye was active in her community where she volunteered as a 4-H leader, an election official and various other activities through her membership in the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.

Faye is survived by her husband, Wade Nelsen of Noxon, Mont.; Jerry and Janis Nelsen of Orofino, Idaho, Terry and Teresa Nelsen of Orofino, Idaho, Susan and Ron Stade of West Richland, Wash., Sandra and David Szambelan of Colfax, Wash., 11 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; a brother, Dale (Audrey) Rasmussen of Heron, Mont.; and two sisters, Kay (Lee) Rasor of Trout Creek, Mont., and Peggy Nelsen of Noxon, Mont.

Funeral services will be conducted 10 a.m. on Monday, MST, at the Heron Community Methodist Church, with Father Ken Fortney, officiating. Interment will follow in the Heron Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to sign Faye’s online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.