Monday, January 13, 2025
Sandra “Sandy” Nielson left her earthly home November 30, 2024, leaving behind a tapestry of love and devotion that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew her.
Born on April 28, 1953, Sandy’s life began on the Stuhr family farm on Mielke Road in the Town of Grant, Shawano, Wisconsin. She grew up there with her cherished family Ken and Millie (Stuhr) Schultz, Grandpa (Bill) and Grandma (Esther Tews) Stuhr and sister Sherry Johnson. The nurturing spirit and steadfast values of those she loved shaped the woman she would become. Many hours were spent playing in those fields and woods with her neighbor and forever friend Sue Mielke Anderson and her sister. Sandy was the leader who tried her best to keep The Gang of Three on the straight and narrow. The other two admit they were not easily managed, yet Sandy never wavered from the responsibility.
Sandy’s journey was one of compassion and dedication, a path she chose early on. After she graduated from Marion High School in 1971, her heart led her to Fox Valley Technical College, where she pursued her calling in nursing, graduating in 1972. The stage was set for a career and life that would touch countless lives with a gentle touch, kindness and empathy.
On September 14, 1974, Sandy’s life took a new turn when she married Doug Nielson and they settled in Waupaca. Together, they built a home of love and laughter, where they raised their two children, Amy, now residing in Suffolk, Virginia with her husband Jim Womick and Todd, in Miami, Florida. They were the center of Sandy’s universe, her pride and joy.
Her friendships were many and she cherished every one of them. Her friendship with Marlyce Wehmeyer Jueds began in nursing school in 1971 and Marlyce fondly recalls their 52 years of friendship as a tapestry woven with love and shared adventures. In 1990 Sandy became assistant to Dr. Russ Butkiewicz and that partnership evolved into a wonderful friendship that lasted her lifetime. Both of these special friends came to Florida to accompany Sandy on her final journey; a testament to Sandy’s ability to forge deep, enduring bonds.
Sandy moved with Doug to Port St. Lucie, Florida in 2019 where she was able to live next to her sister, brother-in-law Tim Sturges and mom. A dream come true for Sandy who always wanted her family together. Sherry will always remember her big sis as her best friend who held her hand and made sure she was safe every day of her life and the Florida Gang of Five were inseparable whether it was watching football, adventures exploring new places or sharing meals all filled with laughter and love.
All of us who loved her knew her knitting bag was always at her feet and she knit doll blankets and later, scarves for the military since 2016 when her friend Sue introduced her to a friend, Mary, who coordinated these projects. Mary says Sandy was truly a blessing to them, always willing to go above and beyond having knit over 200 scarves for the Veterans Hospital of Gainesville and came through when no one else did. Sandy’s heart was forever tethered to the earth through her beloved flower gardens. Each bloom was a reflection of her enduring connection to her roots, a vibrant reminder of the farm where her story began.
Sandy’s warmth and kindness were the threads that wove together the fabric of her life, creating a legacy that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She had unwavering love for her family and friends including: Ashley Sturges, Anne and Brad Hungerford, her “favorite girl” Abigail Serrano, Kari Esbensen, sister-in-law Marian Nielson and nephews Tim and Scott Nielson. She was a beacon of light, guiding those around her with a gentle hand and an open heart.
Sandy asked for no formal service. She wishes your farewell be to hold her memory close, a cherished keepsake that will forever illuminate your life. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of her loved ones, a testament to a life well-lived, a journey marked by love, laughter, and an unyielding dedication to those she held dear.
Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation. -Rumi
The family is funding a project for the Marion Historical Society. A permanent case for the Harold Wolf display will be built in memory of Sandy. It is a detailed woodworking replica of buildings that recall growing up on a farm in Marion. The same memories Sandy described as “the best childhood ever.” Donations in Sandy’s memory can be sent to Sherry Johnson, 518 NW Blue Lake Drive, Port St Lucie or go to https://gofund.me/37cdfeb4.
Interment will take place at Greenleaf Cemetery, Marion at a later date.
