LINCOLN, NEBRASKA — Family, friends, and the Lincoln community are mourning the loss of Julia Kay (Freese) Nelson, who passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at the age of 64. Remembered for her compassionate heart, unwavering faith, and lifelong commitment to caring for others, Julie leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Born on June 14, 1962, to Leon and Alida (Brandt) Freese in rural Plymouth, Nebraska, Julie was raised in a close-knit, faith-centered family. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Plymouth, where the values of kindness, service, and devotion became guiding principles throughout her life. She attended Martin Luther Academy in New Ulm, Minnesota, later graduating from Tri-County High School before earning her nursing degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Julie dedicated her professional career to nursing, serving in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Bryan East Hospital in Lincoln. Colleagues and patients alike admired her calm demeanor, clinical expertise, and genuine compassion. She possessed a remarkable ability to comfort others during some of life’s most vulnerable moments, earning the respect and gratitude of everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.
On June 18, 1983, Julie married the love of her life, Mark Nelson, beginning a partnership that spanned 43 years. Together they built a home centered on faith, love, and family, raising four daughters who became the pride and joy of her life. After retiring from nursing, Julie embraced her role as a devoted mother and grandmother, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with her growing family.
Beyond her family, Julie remained actively involved in her community. She enjoyed participating in Bible study, book club, PEO, SWAK gatherings, football tailgates, Mahjong, and her cherished Friday Afternoon Club. She also loved traveling with family and friends, creating lasting memories wherever life took her. Her warm personality, generous spirit, and welcoming smile made her a treasured friend to many.
Julie is survived by her husband, Mark Nelson; daughters Tori (Bryan) Sones, Ali (Kyle) Dostal, Sami (Matt) Karloff, and Amanda (Keaton) Lewis; six beloved grandchildren; brothers Mark (Marlys) Freese and Neal (Linda) Freese; sister-in-law Sandy Freese; and numerous extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Alida Freese; her brother, Bruce Freese; and her cherished dog, Bella.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Lincoln, with visitation scheduled for Sunday, July 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Church or LightShine Canine Rescue, reflecting causes that were close to Julie’s heart.
Julia Kay Nelson will be remembered for her unwavering faith, selfless compassion, and boundless love for her family. Her legacy of kindness and service will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.