Kathleen (Kay) Joy (Ulvi) Nelson died surrounded by the love of her family April 6 ^th after a long battle with CMML (Leukemia).  She was born in Cloquet, Minnesota, June 30, 1939 to the late Eino and Esther Ulvi. A graduate of Cloquet High School, Moline Lutheran School of Nursing, and Illinois Benedictine University, her nursing career brought great joy and comfort to countless patients and students throughout her career. Beloved at North Central College she was the 2 ^nd recipient of the prestigious First Citizen of the College Award for her work as Director of Health Services.

Widely known for her famous cinnamon rolls, she married her childhood sweetheart in 1960. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She relished her retirement, winters in Arizona and summers at their lake home in Moose Lake, Minnesota.

She excelled at bringing people together through family celebrations, dinner with friends, golf outings and many other gatherings. She was tireless in her desire to help, bringing students to appointments, providing food and advice for any in need and shepherding those most neglected. Kay used her wonderful attributes in her partnership with Jerry as an adored pastor's wife. Many remember her time in Naperville where her husband served as senior pastor of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church for many years. She of course enjoyed singing in choirs throughout her life and sang like an angel in the Our Saviour's choir and later in life adored her time singing with the Grand Singers.

Kay is survived by the love of her life, husband Jerry, sons Kevin (Karen) of Edina, Minnesota, Michael of Tigard Oregon, and daughter Karla (Tom) of Apex, North Carolina. Her beloved eight grandchildren; Erik, Kristen, and Peter Nelson, Anders and Haana Nelson, Kristina, Samuel and Kira Cossa. She is also survived by sisters Phyllis (Lou) and Carolyn (Phil). And a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Kay was so proud of her Finnish heritage and always encouraged her loved ones to persevere with sisu.

A Time of Remembrance will be held on Sunday, June 2 ^nd , 2019 at 12:00 noon at Moose Lake Golf Club, with a light lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please direct gifts to the Lord of Life Memorial Fund in memory of Kay.