Lorraine Ann DePalma Nelson
On April 15, 2016, Laurie boarded her spaceship and traveled on to the next orbit. She was born on August 7, 1940 in Lynn, Massachusetts to Muriel Daniels and Anthony DePalma. She graduated from Lynn English High School and always had happy memories of living with her sister, Maureen, on Beacon Hill.
As adventurous as she was, Laurie took her first chance to leave town and never went back. She always loved the oceans of her hometown and the clam bellies of the Boston Harbor, but grew to appreciate the mountains of her adopted state.
She married the man she loved to hate, Gary Nelson on July 14, 1961, eventually divorcing him but remaining friends. She retired from the University of Utah after 25 years of working in various departments, including KUER, as an administrative assistant.
Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren all loved spending the night at grandma’s and cherish their happy memories with her. Her grandkids were her life. She was a lover of all four-legged animals and a crazy cat lady, pulling over to the side of the road to talk to horses and scattering duck food wherever she went. She had an open door for all stray animals. She was an amazing cook who would have enough food for thirty even when there was only three. Laurie had a huge heart and was very generous to friends and strangers.
She is survived by her children Kellie Ann (Andy) Vander Veur, Dennis Anthony Nelson; grandchildren Tonya (Larry) Laforett, Michael Vander Veur, Sidney Jake Nelson, Stephen Cole Nelson; great-grandchildren Chaz and Kobe Laforett; sister Maureen Swan; niece Kellie Gill.
She is preceded in death by her beloved brother-in-law Sidney Swan and youngest sister Carole.
A special thanks to her son-in-law Andy for all of the care and love he gave to her over the many years.
Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Humane Society or the animal charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 22nd from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Please use the complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.