MARTHA ELIZABETH NELSON

Martha Elizabeth McDow, 88, peacefully passed away on Monday, February 9 after an extended illness. She was born in Covington, Tennessee, on March 19, 1920. During her long life, Martha accomplished so many things. First and foremost, she was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She was also a caring and cherished friend, an active member of her church, a tireless volunteer for church and school, and a well-known artist, who, along with her husband, Russell E. Nelson, created a successful business around their talents of painting and woodworking –this after Russ retired from his lifelong career as a teacher and principal in the San Bernardino School system. Following their move to San Bernardino after World War II, Martha and Russ had four children -- Russell, Jr., twins Pamela and Patricia, and Deborah. They also stretched their arms across the ocean and became parents for two students from Japan and the Philippines through the American Field Service organization – Yasuo Ashida, from Kyoto, Japan, and Julie Macagne from Baguio City, Philippines. In their later years, Martha and Russ's greatest joys came from their three grandchildren -- Michael and Daniel Munson and Mia Wait. Martha and Russ were long-time members of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in San Bernardino, California. Their lives exemplified what a Christian's life should be -- they were a gentle, loving couple, always welcoming of anyone regardless of race, color, or beliefs. Their home was a place where many people found comfort and laughter. Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, and is survived and missed by her children and grandchildren – son Russell Nelson, of Oakland, California; daughter Patricia Nelson of San Diego, California; daughter Pamela Munson of Monument, Colorado along with her husband Robert Munson and their two sons, Michael and Daniel; and daughter Deborah Wait of Nashville, Tennessee along with her husband, Mark Wait and their daughter, Mia. She is also survived by her remaining brother, Robert McDow, of Memphis, Tennessee. Visitation will be held Thursday, February 12 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Bobbitt Memorial Chapel, 1299 E. Highland Avenue, San Bernardino. Church Service will be held on Friday, February 13 at 11:00 AM also at Bobbitt Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Montecito Memorial Park, Barton Rd and Waterman Ave, Colton.

MARTHA ELIZABETH NELSON

March 19, 1920 - February 9, 2009