Obituary of Mary Elaine Nielsen

Mary ELAINE Nielsen was welcomed into the heavenly arms of God on August 10, 2023 at the age of 66.  She was born in California, grew up in Oregon, but considered Florida, and the beach, her home after moving to Central Florida in the 1980’s.  She was married to the love of her life, Eric Nielsen, for 44 years.  Elaine was the loving mother to her sons Lars Nielsen (deceased) and Paul (Lauren) Nielsen, and her daughter Kirsten (Matthew) McElhinney.  She recently became the sweet “Nana” of a granddaughter, Elizabeth McElhinney, and a grandson, Tate Nielsen.

                She trained and worked as a nurse, which fit her personality perfectly.  She had an infectious smile and outgoing personality and could make friends with anyone in the room.  She was an avid sports fan, particularly baseball and college football.  She loved warm weather, the beach, and being with friends and family.  She had a knack for making everyone feel welcome and made the absolute best guacamole.

                She was predeceased by parents, Mary Antoinette Gardner and Chester Gardner, and sister Sharon Gardner.  She is survived by her cherished husband Eric, beloved siblings Barbara (John) Scanlon and Charles Gardner, sister-in-law Kitty (Larry) Nielsen, and nieces and nephews.  She is greatly missed by her family and grandbabies, but we know she is finally cradling her sweet baby boy, Lars, in heaven.

"In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America at dementiasociety.org/donate."