Jeanne Oleatha Diane Nielsen

When we look at flowers and birds, we think of her. When we hear words that are supportive, kind, loving & strong, we think of her. Jeanne Oletha Diane Nielsen, 87, had a vibrant smile and a twinkle in her eye. She was born and raised in Bellingham, WA. Jeanne graduated from Bellingham High School in 1952. She and her classmates have remained close for decades and this year plans are being made for their 70th class reunion. Her friends tell us that she was very athletic and a fast runner. She was also a talented dancer and amazed her classmates performing the Russian Squat Kick dance during the annual What-A-Sho event. Jeanne met her husband Paul when he moved to Bellingham from Iowa. They were married for over 65 years and raised four children. Upon retirement they enjoyed staying in their desert home in Pahrump, Nevada. Jeanne was an active member of and worked at the Hannegan Motorcycle Racetrack supporting her husband and sons while they rode. She was an excellent cook and many riders lined up for Jeanne’s “moto muffins”. Jeanne did work outside of the family home. Her last occupation of 16 years was at Smith’s Gardens. She was an avid gardener and created beautiful flower gardens. Looking back, she had many admirable talents such as knitting, embroidery work, sewing, volunteer work for the hospital auxiliary, beautiful penmanship, and was a loving supervisor of the family home. Jeanne is survived by her daughters Julee (Joe) Pitalo, Paula (Chuck) Crawford, sons Vernon and John Nielsen, grandsons Travis Tullar and Cole Nielsen, granddaughter Olivia Nielsen, great-grandchildren Colton and Jayden Tullar, and many relatives and close friends. Her husband Paul passed away February 2020. They will now be together forever, resting at Greenacres Memorial Park. She is also predeceased by her parents Clarence and Gwendolynn Axelson, and brothers Ronnie and Roger Axelson. Our loss is immeasurable but so is the love left behind. A very special thank you to the Hospice Palliative Care triage team that helped care for her. We will be forever appreciative. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Whatcom Hospice Foundation. Jeanne will be laid to rest on Thursday, April 28th at 2:00 PM at Greenacres Memorial Park in Ferndale, WA. A gathering will follow in the Greenacres reception room.

Jeanne Oleatha Diane Nielsen

November 6, 1934 - April 10, 2022