Sharon Nelson, 85, passed away in Bremerton, Washington on July 3, 2019. The daughter of Walter Carder and Beatrice Hemphill Carder, she was married to Donald Nelson for 49 years.
Sharon was born and raised in San Jose, California, where she played baseball, performed synchronized swimming, and enjoyed skiing and cheerleading. She married the love of her life, Donald Nelson, and they both enjoyed traveling, having adventures, and trying new things. Don and Sharon lived in Japan where she served as President of the Airmen Wives’ Club. She proudly served as a delegate to the Republican Convention, and at age 60 completed her education with an Associate’s Degree from Olympic College. Sharon was a beloved wife and mother, and was active in her church, community, and her children’s and grandchildren’s lives.
Sharon and Donald were devoted to each other and their families and their home was filled with laughter and adventure. Sharon was community minded and could be counted on to lend a helping hand to her neighbors.
They raised their four children on a farm in Poulsbo. Sharon spent her 50’s taking care of her mother in her home in Bremerton and at age 61 retired and started a new adventure in Kettle Falls, WA, where she and Don built the log home of their dreams. There they immersed themselves in the farming community and church; making lifelong friends.
Sharon was optimistic and encouraged others to “look on the bright side”. Her cheerful outlook and bright smile will be greatly missed.
Sharon is survived by: a brother, Victor Carder (Jackie) of Carmel, California, four children, John Nelson of Kettle Falls, Washington, Joy (Dennis) Dunlap of Poulsbo, Washington, Vickie Lee of Bremerton, Washington, and Valerie (Scott) Smith of Billings, Montana. five grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Her husband Donald Nelson, one son and 7 grandchildren preceded her in death.
A memorial service was held Friday, July 5, 2019 at Gateway Fellowship Church in Poulsbo, WA. Interment will be at Mountain View Cemetery, Colville, WA. Donations may be made to Youth With a Mission, PO Box 989, Port Hadlock, WA 98339.
