Rosie Nelson, 91

Rosie Nelson, 91, of Rockwell passed away peacefully Saturday, December 11, 2021 at the Rockwell Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 1:30 p.m. Friday, December 17, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 305 Elm St. E., Rockwell, with Rev. Josh Link, Celebrant.  Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City, IA.

Visitation and public viewing will be held one hour prior to Mass at the church.

Rosie A. Schellsmidt was born November 11, 1930 in Harpers Ferry, IA, the daughter of Clarence and Bertha (Adney) Schellsmidt, the third of six children. She grew up in Mason City, attending Mason City schools. Rosie began work as a housekeeper and later worked as a credit manager at Mach III Inc. In 1948 Rosie was married, and to this union a son, Michael, was born. In the 70’s, life took Rosie to California for many years before returning to Iowa. Here she was very involved with St. Patrick’s Catholic Church where she dedicated much of her time as a eucharistic minister. She later called Rockwell home and was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Women’s Guild, and the Legion of Mary. 

Rosie always enjoyed a good book. She loved to collect frogs of all shapes and sizes and looked forward to shopping trips with Lorna hunting for them. While in the Rockwell Care Center she enjoyed their many activities, including bingo and cards, and took pride in her numerous winnings.

Those left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Irene Kleckner of Osage and Lorna Thompson of Rockwell; sister-in-law, Bev Moore of Thornton; two grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Preceding her in death are her son, Michael D. Nelson in 2012; parents, Clarence and Bertha; siblings, Marie Cichon, Clarence “Bud” Schellsmidt, and Larry Moore; and brothers-in-law, Rex Kleckner and Dennis Thompson.