nee Powell
With saddened hearts we say “Farewell to A Legend” affectionately known as Monica Mary Nelson (nee Powell), the lady who loved to wear red, graciously retired to her bed on April 9, 2013 in Chilliwack. She was 90 years-young, born on October 14, 1922 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Lyman and Eva Powell and was the favourite sister to three brothers; Doug, Bruce and Howard Powell. “Mon” completed nurse’s training at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg and worked in Stonewall, Gladstone Hospital and various nursing homes. She experienced two husbands (not at the same time) with the second marriage to Norman Nelson lasting almost 30 years. After leaving Winnipeg in the early 1970’s, Monica lived in North Vancouver and Chilliwack. She spent at least 70 years of her life teaching the Bible as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses engaging anyone she would meet in lively conversations as she always took a genuine interest in people and was a great story teller, history buff, a real colorful character with a witty sense of humor. Her passions and interests included shopping, collecting coins, jewelry and coupons, sleeping in until noon, watching television, taking vitamins, and always enjoyed a good pork roast. Although she bore no children, she will be remembered fondly as a very popular Auntie and Great Auntie. Monica is survived by her estranged husband Norman Nelson of Woodlands, Manitoba, sister-in-law Daphne Powell of Chilliwack, niece Kim Powell of Montreal, nephews: Douglas Powell of Chilliwack, Randy Powell (Cindy) of Agassiz, Jonathan Powell (Krista, Keagan & Hannah) of Port Moody, Cameron Powell (Petra, Sophie & Sam) of Prague, Czek Republic and sister-in-law Marge Powell of Mississauga, her 2 sons and 2 daughters. Monica is ironically predeceased by all her brothers Bruce, Doug & Howard. Monica’s family would like to take this opportunity to thank the nursing staff of the Chilliwack General Hospital (5th Floor), all the Home Care workers who so lovingly cared for Monica over the past year and above all her spiritual family who displayed such self-sacrificing spirit in many ways, cooking, cleaning and visiting her reflecting a true brotherhood and who she will look forward to seeing again in Paradise on Earth. Until then Monica, have an amazing nap. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 45660 Watson Rd. in Sardis, BC.