Carol Kelt Nelson

Carol Kelt Nelson, beloved wife and mother, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Thursday, April 21, 2011, at the age of 71, after a long, strongly-fought battle with liver disease. This energetic, vibrant, spirited woman will be well remembered by, and sorely missed by, many family members and friends who loved her dearly. Carol is survived by her devoted husband, Bobby H. Nelson, who spent 52 years, 8 months and 12 days striving to give her all of the happiness they could squeeze into their too-short time together. She is also survived by her children Nancy Jennings and her husband Tony, and Owen Nelson and his wife Debby. "Mimi" is also survived by her pride-and-joy grandchildren on whom she doted: Danny Nelson and his wife Beckie, Elizabeth Jennings, Matt Nelson and his wife Becca, Anthony Jennings, and Jenny Nelson. "Mimi" found great pleasure in making memories with them and hearing news about their school, friends and any detail they wanted to share. She also had fun surprising them with unique gifts and "finds" she came across while "antiquing" with her husband. Carol was preceded in death by her parents George and Elizabeth Kelt, and her sister Benadean Fairfield. She is survived by her sister Patricia Rosenfeld, her brother George Kelt and his wife Clara, her aunt Elizabeth Malone, as well as her loving nieces, nephews and cousins who, along with her many close friends, will cherish her memory and miss her every day. Carol was born in Bellville, Texas, but spent most of her life in Houston. She was an active volunteer in the PTA, school libraries, Girl Scouts, teaching and reading to children and adults, visiting hospital patients with her puppy Pepe, spreading the message about organ transplants, supporting the volunteer fire department, and supporting any and all activities of the children in her life. She was also an avid bowler, tennis player, reader, and bridge player extraordinaire. The Nelson family would like to gratefully thank the Traditions Hospice caregivers, especially Dr. Shane Simpson, Misty Kahl, and Monica, who attentively, gently, and lovingly cared for and supported Carol and her family. A memorial service celebrating Carol's life is planned for Wednesday, April 27, 2011, 7:00 P.M., following a visitation from 5:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M., at the Schmidt Funeral Home, 12029 Hwy 36 South, Bellville, Texas 77418. In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in memory of Carol may be directed to the Arbor Day Foundation, 211 North 12th, Lincoln, NE 68508.