Maureen was born September 21, 1948, in Traverse City the daughter of John and Helen (Kolbasa) Conroy. Maureengrew up on a farm, went to Sabin elementary school and graduated from Kingsley high school in 1967. On February 3, 1968 in Traverse City she married Robert L. Nelson (Bob) who survives.

Maureen loved helping others. She worked hard to earn an associate’s degree from Northwestern Michigan College then her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work from Grand Valley State University. The character of helping showed throughout her professional career. Maureen worked for Community Mental Health as a case manager and Doula Teen Parent Program. In the process of helping others, she formed many friendships.

Maureen loved being outdoors – and doing things like working in her garden, taking walks around the block, and fishing. The family fondly remembers the camping trips to Kampvilla in Bear Lake, Harrison, Petoskey and also the Upper Peninsula. She made the best breakfasts on the campfire!

She got so much personal pleasure out of gardening. She grew flowers, herbs, fruits, berries, and vegetables, which all made their way to the family dinner table. She was an excellent cook and Sunday dinners are a Nelson family tradition. Maureen also made special dinners for her daughters for their birthdays. They would select their special menu and she would cook their favorite foods to celebrate. In her adult years she also enjoyed hosting tea parties for friends and family.

She had a love of Pinochle. She, her parents, and her siblings would play the card game at family get-togethers. Maureen passed this love of Pinochle on to her own children and grandchildren. Maureen deeply treasured being a grandmother and great grandmother.

Maureen is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Bob; her four daughters, Danielle (David) Bieganowski, Heather (Steve) Craker, Heidi Nelson, Nicole Nelson; her siblings, Janice (Victor) Rioux, Eileen (Terry) Bigelow, Irene Hulett; ten grandchildren, Autumn Patton, Alexa (Montana) Zentz, Raechel (Brently) Wallace, Izabella Craker, Albert Rice, Henry Rice, Robert Ruiz, Juan Ruiz, Severa Ruiz, Vincent Ruiz; and, great grandchildren Xenna, Juniper, Ezra, Aalyn, Noah, Camille and Ryan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother-in-law, Leon Hulett.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family service has been held.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E. Traverse Highway, Traverse City, MI 49684 Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.martinson.info Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.