Donelda Sarah Lavina Nelson (Gilmore)

June 12, 1927 - July 13, 2015

Donelda Sarah Lavina Nelson (Gilmore) passed into the loving arms of Jesus on July 13, 2015 at Edgewood Vista Memory Care in Missoula, Montana after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. The family wishes to extend their heart felt thanks to the incredible staff at Edgewood Vista and Missoula Hospice. Donelda was born on June 12,1927 in Vermilion, Alberta, Canada. She is survived by her children: Gary L. Cole (Sandra); Robert L. (“Bob”) Cole (Sharon); Ralph C. (“Chuck”) Cole; Karen K. Baker; Linda M. Whitaker; Debbie A. Cole and many wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren. Preceding her in death was her father, Samuel A. Gilmore; her mother, Agnes Wang and stepfather Martin Wang, her brother Robert C. Gilmore, first husband Ralph E. (“Curly”) Cole and her late husband Everett M. Nelson, as well as several beloved sisters by marriage and a large extended family. She was a nurturing and very caring person who worked for many years in a hospital setting, retiring from St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, Montana. After her retirement, she continued to serve others. Children became her new focus in the Foster Grandparent Program at Mount Jumbo Elementary School. She loved children and they loved her in return. In the Book of Matthew, it says: “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” She always talked about “her kids”. She longed to return to a life on the farm in Scobey Montana, where she spent her childhood and much of her early adult life. As she wished she will be buried along side her beloved parents in Scobey Montana. We will miss a wonderful Mom and

Grandmother. We love you and we will one day gather in your Heavenly Home that God has prepared for you. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.missoulafuneralhomes.com