Maryann (Nelson) Carlson

Mary Ann (Nelson) Carlson, 79, died peacefully in her sleep on October 14, 2021 after a lengthy illness.

MaryAnn was born on April 11, 1942 in Rockford, IL to Harley F Nelson and Blanche L (Cook) Nelson.
She graduated from West High School in 1960 and attended Rock Valley college.

Her professional life included working at Amerock Corp,  owning The Diet Workshops of Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin, and selling insurance and real estate.

Highlights of her life include her marriage to Edward R. Hayes in 1963, the birth of her two daughters, Michelle (Hayes) Lynch and Julie Hayes. Her marriage to John Carlson in 1971, and the love of her life and her life partner Mark Hollingsworth whom she lived with from 2012 until her passing.
She had two wonderful grandchildren Danny and Meghan Lynch whom she loved dearly.  She had a special dog “BJ” and was a lover of all animals.

Her hobbies included sewing, knitting, needlework, and swimming.  She was an avid reader and dog walker.

MaryAnn was a wonderful mother, grandmother, companion, and friend, will be eternally missed, and will always be cherished.

She was predeceased by her parents Harley Nelson and Blanche (Cook) Nelson, and her brother William (Bill) Nelson.  Her survivors include her daughters Michelle (Dan) Lynch of Caledonia, IL, Julie Hayes of Rockford, IL., her brother Robert (Andrea) Nelson of Iola, WI, and sister Marcia Nelson of Manitowoc, WI, her grandchildren Daniel (Danny) Lynch and Meghan Lynch of Caledonia, IL.  Nephew Jason Nelson (Vicki) of Chicago, IL, and Stephanie Pauletto (Peter) of New Berlin, WI.

Special thanks to the many doctors and nurses at Saint Anthony hospital that saved our mother’s life many times over.  They are true miracle workers.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

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