Details
About LaVon Nelson
LaVon Nelson born August 15, 1938 passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025 in Chandler, AZ. Born to Neal and Gladys Nelson in Gays Mills, WI.
When LaVon was in her 20’s, her right leg was fused together and unable to bend due to a car accident. Despite her disability it did not prevent her from having a happy and successful life. LaVon traveled throughout the world with friends she met through teaching. Her favorite hobbies were swimming and sunbathing. Water was therapeutic for her.
LaVon taught elementary aged children for 30 years and was a reading specialist in West Allis, WI. In 2003 she moved to Arizona to get out of the cold and be closer to her niece Rhonda. She enjoyed playing games, swimming and everything retirement had to offer. LaVon loved dogs, Hallmark movies and Dancing with the Stars.
LaVon will be remembered by her wonderful personality, beautiful smile and the ability to talk to anyone. She was very fashionable and loved wearing purple. Even on her last day she wore an Alfred Dunner outfit with matching earrings and watch.
She is survived by (Nieces and Nephews) Randy Helgerson, Cottage Grove, WI, Rhonda Helgerson (Sally Christensen), Gilbert, AZ, Renee Ryan (Tim) Cottage Grove, WI, Matthew Nelson (Christine) Beloit, WI, Billy Nelson, Janesville, WI, Jon Nelson (Joni) Janesville, WI Danny Nelson, Janesville, WI and several great nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 11th at noon. Manhattan’s will be served.
A special thank you to the caregivers and staff at Robson Reserve and to Summit Health Care for the physical and water therapy she received.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
2 comments
Sharon Cronkrite
I worked with LaVon at General Mitchell School, West Allis -West Milwaukee School District for 8 years. She was a person with a delightful sense of humor and an extremely gregarious laugh. We had great times teaching together. Lavon had a love of children and always wanted the best for them and their families.
Lavon and I also bowled on the same team and much to the chagrin of our teammates, LaVon and I always managed to sneak off to purchase a manhattan or beer to assist with our bowling skills. Our teammates weren’t always certain it assisted as much as we thought it did.
Lavon and I both lived in a retirement complex in Arizona and belonged to an organization called the Wisconsin Interest Group. Lavon loved playing the horse racing game for a few quarters whenever our group had game night. Members all over the room heard LaVon’s laughter and the excitement she and her niece, Rhonda, brought to the event.
Blessings to you LaVon. You were loved.
Kenneth Jurek
I taught with LaVon in the West Allis School System for many years. She was truly a wonderful person. She was one of the “good ones”. I will always remember her warmth and good humor. RIP LaVon!