Jill Elizabeth Nelson of Rochester passed away from complications of metastatic breast cancer at her home on Sunday, August 14, 2022. She was 59 years old.
Jill was born on April 28th, 1963 in Rochester, MN. She graduated from Mayo High School in 1981. Jill Married Curt Nelson on August 23 1986. The couple made their home in Rochester with their 3 children. Jill worked at the Fraser Construction which later turned into Builder Sand and Gravel. After several years in construction, Jill changed careers. She went to work at the Rochester School District. She started at Century High School in 1997 as the “lunch lady,” as she proudly told everyone. Currently she was the “lunch lady” at Kellogg Middle School.
Jill cherished her time with her grandchildren. She was a wonderful Grandma. Attending all the grandkids sporting events. She went above and beyond for them. Jill loved being surrounded by her pets and always took the time to stop and pet someone else’s furry friends. She was an avid Steelers’ fan and a NASCAR fan. Jill enjoyed traveling, she loved Florida. She enjoyed camping, gardening and being around people. Her amazing passion for making people laugh was evident with Jill everyday. Her heart and home were always open to anyone. Her home is where her heart is…
Jill is survived by her husband Curt of 36 years. Her daughter, Amanda (Dewayne) Alfred. Her sons, Tony (Jessie) Nelson, Matthew (Jenna) Nelson and her father Floyd Paulson. Grandchildren: Marshall, Dewayne Jr., Addyson, Drake, Jamie, Emma. Brothers: Steve (Kristin) Paulson, Mike Paulson, Chris Paulson, Charles (Cheryl) Paulson. Sisters: Debra (Ron) Larson, Doreen Chester, Laurie (Chuck) Evenson and many nieces and nephews. Jill was the youngest of eight siblings.
Jill was preceded in death by her mother Barbara Paulson, Mother-in-law Patricia Anderson and Father-in-law Dick Nelson.
A celebration of life will be held for Jill at the Eagles Club, 917 – 15 Ave SE, Rochester, MN on Friday, August 19 from 4pm-8pm.
Rochester Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences of Jill may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
I am sorry to hear of your loss Amanda! I too lost my mother recently and my life will never be the same. I am thinking and praying for you!
Amanda, so sorry to hear about this. It’s never easy. Be sure though that we’re all here for you.
Sorry for lost,she a special lady
I am so sorry to hear of Jill’s passing! She was such a joy to everyone and made you laugh. There was never a dull moment when Jill was around. Hold on to those memories. You now know how precious they are. Hugs and love to all of Jill’s family <3
So sorry for your last Kurt. I work with Jill at Central High School in student nutrition. She was always very helpful . A very nice lady. I remember her in high school! Jill really haven’t changed much.
Blessing, Sherry Hofbauer Scharberg
I am soo truly sorry for your family
Amanda – I am sorry to hear about the passing of your mom, it sounds like she was a special lady. “Lunch Ladies” are truly special people, I am sure that the students and faculty at Kellogg will miss her presence this upcoming school year. Prayers for strength during this difficult time.