Elda Nielsen

Elda Nielsen, age 98, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Ridgewood Care Center. Elda was born in Sheboygan, WI, March 14, 1917, daughter of the late Albert and Augusta (Nee: Otto) Stange and she just celebrated her 98th birthday surrounded by her loving family.

On November 23, 1935 Elda was united in marriage to Henry Ostwald who passed away at the age of 37. Left with three daughters to raise, she worked at Mamco Corporation for several years. On October 20, 1962 she married Niels Nielsen who preceded her in death, October 21, 1991. Everyone’s friend, Elda lived her life by trusting in the Lord. She was a longtime member of the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection. Her favorite hobby was crocheting and Elda found great joy in making beautiful afghans and prayer shawls that she would then gift to others. Always very patriotic, Elda was nicknamed “The Flag Lady” and “Old Glory”, and loved the Fourth of July, the day her daughter Nancy was born. She also enjoyed playing cards, listening to Elvis Presley and trips to Culvers. More than anything she devoted her life to her family and cherished time spent with them. She will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her daughters and sons-in-law, Charla (Ken) Davis, Nancy (Frank) Catrine, all of Racine, Judy (Ken) Eaton of FL; her grandchildren, Cyndi (Rick) Ashmus, Ken (Tammy) Davis, Mary (John) Wawrzonkowski, Mike (Katie) Catrine, John Catrine, Gary (Rhonda) Catrine, Karen (Jeff) Bennett, Jeff (Jean) Damaschke; her nine great-grandchildren, Casey Ashmus, Tyler Davis, Brayden Davis, Jordan (Gina) Catrine, Maddy Damaschke, Alexis Damaschke, Nathan Damaschke, Austin Damaschke, Reily Monkman; 2 great-great grandchildren, Breiden and Blair; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husbands she was preceded in death by her brother, Elmer (Madeline) Stange; and sister, Elvera (Lyle) Pierce.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 26, 2015, 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Melvin Miritz officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Thursday from 9:30 A.M. until time of service at 11:00 A.M. Memorials to the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection or to one’s favorite charity have been suggested.

Elda’s family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff and residents at Ridgewood for their loving and compassionate care .