Marilyn V. Nelson, 78, of Crete, Nebraska, passed away on March 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Marilyn touched the lives of many with her kindness, strength, and unwavering love.

Born on January 6, 1947, to William and Viola Meinke, Marilyn grew up in Crete, attending St. John Lutheran School and graduating from Crete High School in 1965, continuing her education at SECC.  On July 23, 1966, she married Roger D. Nelson at St. John Lutheran Church in Kramer, Nebraska. Together, they built a loving home and a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work on their farm in rural Crete.

Marilyn had a rewarding career that began as a Nursing Home Administrator and later transitioned her career to Pegler Sysco as an Equipment Merchandiser, where she formed lifelong friendships and enjoyed occasional travels. She had a passion for gardening, cultivating beautiful flowers, cheering for Nebraska sports, crafting, embroidery, cross-stitch, sewing, and playing cards. Most of all, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a dedicated member of St. John Lutheran Church. Marilyn also loved traveling to visit family, fishing on the Niobrara River, and exploring new places.

A resilient and independent woman, Marilyn overcame many health challenges with grace and determination. She was the heart of her family, offering love, wisdom, and unwavering support.

She is survived by her children, Kent (Lisa) Nelson and Kimberly (Kenneth) Bracht; grandchildren, Kourtney (Jim) Tarnick, Kade Nelson, Whitney (Billy) Grenfell, Alex Bracht, and Raelyn (Eric) Barton; great-grandchildren, Turner, Taggert, and Tilson Tarnick, Emerson Nelson, Adelyn, Cecilia, and Vivian Grenfell, and Sloan Barton; brother, Gary (Lynn) Meinke; sister, Elaine Luzum; and sister-in-law, Sandi Meinke.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger D. Nelson; parents, William and Viola Meinke; brother, Mervin Meinke; and brother-in-law, Robert Luzum.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Kramer. It will be livestreamed and can be viewed at https://studio.youtube.com/video/T_zELmHJg1U/livestreaming . Interment will follow at St. John Lutheran Cemetery. No Visitation. Memorials are suggested to the family for the benefit of St. John Lutheran Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.