Susan (Hearst) Nelson, 71, of Edgewood, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 3, after an extended battle with Parkinson’s. She was born Aug. 25, 1947, to Vernon and Roberta Hearst. Sue grew up on picturesque Vashon Island and graduated from Vashon High School in 1965. During her teenage years, Sue was a Hope Officer for the International Order of Rainbow for Girls – Island Assembly #112. She loved the island lifestyle and had fond memories of Strawberry Festivals and endless ferry rides. She married Richard “Dick” Nelson in 1974 and they shared 39 wonderful years together. Sue was employed with IBM as an Administrative Associate for over a decade and made many lifelong friends with her co-workers. In 1994, Sue began a new career as a Legal Processing Assistant with Pierce County District Court until her retirement in 2010. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, boating, traveling, knitting dishcloths and making beautiful quilts.

Sue was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and aunt. Sue was preceded in death by her husband Richard Nelson; brother Bob Hearst; and sister-in-law Diane Hearst. She is survived by her children Brian Nelson (Teri), Dayna Smith (Erin) and Rick Nelson (Tamra); brothers Don Hearst (Kathy) and Chuck Hearst; brother-in-law Don Nelson (Pat); grandchildren Brandon, Joey and Nicole; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Sue’s Life will be held at a later date with details to follow. If desired, in lieu of flowers, a donation in her memory can be made to Franciscan Foundation-Hospice.