Elizabeth E. Nelson

Long time Libby resident, Elizabeth E. Nelson, 86, passed away on Aug. 6, 2024, at the Libby Care Center. 

Elizabeth was born on Jan. 31, 1938, in Leith, North Dakota, to Harry and Theresa Finck. Elizabeth was an only child surrounded by an extensive family of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins in a farming community.

Elizabeth met and married Allen J. Nelson on Feb. 19, 1953, in Carson, North Dakota. After their marriage, she followed her husband, who worked construction as a carpenter and millwright welder, settling in Libby in 1968.

Elizabeth worked as a homemaker for many years and then became the secretary for the office of local Carpenter Union 2242. Later, while working for a naturopathic doctor, she decided there was a need locally for people to have access to health food products and became the sole proprietor of Betty’s Health Food Store. After years of sharing her knowledge in the community she decided to retire.

In her youth she enjoyed gardening, canning, camping, music, quilting and preparing large family meals. In her retirement years, she continued to enjoy music, Elvis movies, puzzle books and reading the Bible. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Allen J. Nelson and daughter Kelly Rae.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Shelly and Dave Wilburn of South Carolina, Sally and Mike Fuchs and Allen Jr. and Ruby Nelson of Washington; grandchildren Chad Schikora, significant other Brenna Rooney, Steven Nelson wife Kylie, Heather Nelson, Robert Laycock wife Lisa, Richard Laycock wife Lainey, Kaley Wilburn-Cook spouse Ben Cook; and great-grandchildren Evelyn and Abby Laycock, Rilynn Nelson, Ashlynn, Kona and Havana Jones and Charles Laycock.

The family would like to express a big thank you to the staff at Libby Care Center and Cabinet Peaks Medical Center and the Libby ambulance crew for the kindness, care and comfort they provided for Elizabeth during her recent years of decline.

There is a private family service planned. In lieu of flowers please donate to Pets for Life in Elizabeth’s name. 

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.