Norma Nelson

Norma Geneva Nelson, age 89, of Poynette, passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Columbia County Healthcare Center. She was born on March 20, 1937, in Mauston, to Donald and Celia (Miller) Mutch.

Norma graduated from Mauston High School in 1955. After graduation, she spent the summer working at Rennebohm Drug in Madison before returning home to attend Juneau County Teachers College. Following her education, Norma taught all eight grades at a country school near Poynette for three years.

On August 3, 1957, Norma married Wayne Nelson at the Methodist Church in Mauston. Together, Norma and Wayne built a life centered around family while operating farming, agricultural feeding equipment, and rental businesses. Throughout the years, Norma worked alongside Wayne, playing an important role in each of their endeavors.

Norma enjoyed snowmobiling and curling and later discovered a love for quilting, creating special quilts for each of her grandchildren. She and Wayne enjoyed traveling together and spent their winters in Mesa, Arizona, for 25 years. Above all, Norma cherished her family. She took great joy in attending her grandchildren’s many activities and events, always making time to show her love and support. Her family was one of the greatest blessings in her life.

Norma was also dedicated to her church community. She served in the Altar Guild and was an active member of the Adah-Esther Circle at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rio.

Norma is survived by her husband, Wayne; children Philip (Lisa) Nelson of DeForest, Gaylord (Lynne) Nelson of Lemont, IL, Larry (Shari) Nelson of Lodi, and Scott (Lori) Nelson of Sauk City; grandchildren, Allyson Helms, Alex (Hailey), Jacob, Spencer (Maria), Emily (Orrie) Walsvik, Erika, Travis, Nikala (Dallas) Richardson, and Joshua; great-grandchildren, Marlo and Bodie; and sister-in-law, Lorna Mutch.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Celia Mutch, and her brother, Robert.

A Memorial Service will be held at noon on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Grasse Funeral Home in Rio, with Rev. Anne Wickland officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. until the time of service on Saturday. Burial will follow at Leeds Center Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rio.