Barbara Nelson

Barbara Nelson Barbara “Bobbi” Nelson passed away Monday September 9th at the age of 69. She passed peacefully with her family by her side. Bobbi was born June 16th, 1950 in Julesburg, Colorado. Her family moved from Nebraska to Harrisburg, OR in 1959. Bobbi is preceded in death by her parents Clyde and Dorothy Maahs. She is survived by her husband Lamar Nelson, son Kraig his wife Jenny their children Katelynn, Connor, and Kayla, son Kurt his wife Cris their children Kaylee and Trey, son David his wife Jamie their children Austin and Devin, son Ryan and his daughter Rylee. She is also survived by her sisters Deanna Altree and Carol MacKimmie, brothers, Mike Maahs, Lary Maahs, Doug Maahs, and Mark Maahs and his wife Tammy. Bobbi is also survived by many Nieces, Nephews, In-Laws, Extended Family, and many Life-Long friends. Having a big extended family living very close by was something Bobbi was always grateful for. She enjoyed playing card or dice games with her mom and sisters, keeping up with everything her younger brothers were doing, family potlucks, spending time at the Oregon Coast, and just camping anywhere she could; even it was only 5 miles from home. The more family that could make a camping trip, the better. Bobbi was employed serving school lunches at the Harrisburg School District for many years. As much as she enjoyed this job, her friends there, and seeing all the kids that would come through the lunch line, there was never a doubt that her career was Homemaker, Wife, Mom, and Grandma. Her Husband, Lamar, and her started a family shortly after getting married. Soon, Bobbi had 4 boys running through the house. She took great pride in everything her kids did and was always there for anything that was needed. She baked numerous birthday cakes, had meals ready for bus rides to games, and later as the kids were out of the house, she would always have a great breakfast ready for any time they visited. Biscuits and Gravy or a Homemade Pillsbury donut could lure everyone back to the house. Regardless of how busy things were, Bobbi would always have time to attend her kids’ games. At those games it wasn’t hard to know who she was rooting for. Her purple and gold sweatshirts let you know which team and large buttons with kids name and number made sure everyone knew which kids hers were. Rumor is there are a few referees and umpires in the area that knew how to tell which kids hers were also. Even with so much love for her siblings, husband, and children Bobbi proved her heart was big enough for lots more. GRANDMA may have been Bobbi’s favorite role in life. She had 8 Grandchildren that she loved dearly and took every chance she could to spoil them. The first two, Kaylee and Katelynn were granddaughters who finally brought some girls into the family. Then came her grandsons Austin, Devin, Connor, and Trey. Last but never the least were two more granddaughters Kayla and Rylee. While the running joke of who the favorite grandchild was never got old; the truth was that Bobbi had no favorites. It didn’t matter if it meant a drive up to Beaverton, short drive to Eugene, or quick car ride up the street Bobbi attended as many school plays, concerts, games, birthday parties, and adjusted holiday get togethers as she could. She owned many GRANDMA sweatshirts and she wore them proudly. While life was centered around their children and grandchildren, Bobbi and Lamar were also very much in love. September 25th would have been there 49th Wedding anniversary. Maybe not always shouted from the rooftops, it was small actions that were a constant reminder of their love. That love showed through most during challenging times. Bobbi’s love for family was evident in the last couple days as she got to say goodbye and let family and friends know she loved them. However, it was a last “small action” to sit up and give Lamar a final kiss that let everyone know the Love and Appreciation she had for her husband. We would like to THANK all her friends for the outpouring of support Bobbi had. She loved the town of Harrisburg and her many friends; the visitors to the hospital, flowers, and cards show she was loved back. One of Bobbi’s last outings was to attend her 50th Class Reunion, her smile that day was as big as it ever was. In the community, 4th of July was one of Bobbi’s favorite times she would start talking about that day months ahead of time. It was difficult to convince her that there was anywhere else in the world to spend the holiday. Yes, there may be a pancake breakfast, parade, and fireworks in other towns… but the Harrisburg Community were not in those other towns and that is what she enjoyed. A celebration of life will be held at the Harrisburg Christian Church on Saturday September 28th at 11:00 am. Family and Friends are invited to gather at the Museum in Harrisburg afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jared Stout Memorial Fund or the Harrisburg Booster Club; both at: Harrisburg High School PO BOX 208 Harrisburg, OR 97446.