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HARVEY, MI – Emily Ann (Phare) Nelson, 96, formerly of Harvey, entered eternal life Sunday, April 4, 2021, at Eastwood Nursing Center, in Negaunee.
Born July 28, 1924, in Gwinn, a daughter of Sidney and Emily (Dunstan) Phare, Emily was raised in Ishpeming and resided in the Marquette area all her married life. During World War II, Emily, like so many women of her generation, assisted the war effort by working as a Rosie the Riveter in the factories at Willow Run in Detroit, while the men were away serving in the military.
On June 7, 1947, Emily was united in marriage to Carl O. Nelson and together the couple established their home and began raising their family. Most importantly, Emily loved her roles of wife, mom, and homemaker, and enjoyed taking care of her family.
Her working years were spent at Marquette's Paine, Webber, Jackson, and Curtis Brokerage.
Emily was a sixty year plus member of the First Presbyterian Church, serving as elder and president of the Women's Association, as well as participating in many church activities.
She was also a member of the Ishpeming Order of Eastern Star, serving in several positions and was Worthy Matron twice. Both she and Carl were active with the Shriners, volunteering at the Shrine Circus in Marquette for many years.
Emily is survived by her daughter, Carol (Dan) Smith; son, Vincent (Kerry) Nelson; 4 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and 3 great- great- grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; son, Byron; parents, Sidney and Emily (Dunstan) Phare; and all her 5 siblings.
There will be a memorial service held later in July when all her family can be here.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church, 120 N. Front Street, Marquette, MI 49855.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com