Caryn Nelson
Caryn Nelson, 77, of Gilmanton, passed away peacefully, Thursday, August 13, 2026, in Eau Claire, from health issues related to dementia. Caryn navigated the difficult journey of dementia with courage, strength and dignity.
She was born January 17, 1949, in Whitehall, to the late Melvin and Mabel (Anderson) Dascher. Caryn attended Whitehall High School. After high school, Caryn worked at the Trempealeau County Courthouse.
On May 25, 1968, Caryn was united in marriage to Larry Nelson in Whitehall. Five children were added to their family in the following years. To her children, she was always simply “Mum.” Her daughter, Laura, passed away early in life, and her memory was held forever in Caryn’s heart.
Caryn and Larry began dairy farming early on in their life together, along with their children. Naturally an early riser, Caryn was usually the first one out in the barn in the morning and would often get up in the middle of the night to check on any cows close to having a calf. The farm is still in the family today.
If time allowed between the daily chores, Caryn found joy in the simple pleasures of life—whether she was reading a good book, tending to her garden, going for walks or sitting outside to watch the birds, with hummingbirds being one of her favorites. She had a special tenderness for all living creatures. Birds, cats and every small sign of life brought her happiness, and she treated them with the same gentleness she offered to people. There was rarely an insect she didn’t save and set free, or a stray cat on the farm that she failed to care for. “Baby Kitty” was her long-time feline companion.
Lovingly called “Waffle Queen” by her children, Caryn was a talented cook and baker and wasn’t afraid to be creative and try new things. She was an avid reader, and the library was one of her favorite places. She shared her love of reading with her children, with ‘The Wind in the Willows’ holding a special place in their childhood memories together.
She enjoyed having a relaxing cup of tea. Chamomile was one of her favorites. She loved listening to the music of Neil Diamond and cherished seeing him in concert in 2005.
She showed her love in the everyday ways that mattered most. Her life reminds us that true strength is often quiet, and the most powerful legacy is a heart that consistently chooses compassion. She didn’t need to be loud to be unforgettable, and she certainly didn’t need to be dramatic to leave a lasting impression. She was a very giving person who didn’t seek praise or recognition for the kindness she shared. She laughed easily, instantly making others feel at ease. Caryn had many wonderful sides to her. Those who knew her will dearly miss the very special person she was. She was beautiful, both inside and out.
Caryn will be greatly missed by her children: Tony (Stephanie) Nelson, JoAnna Nelson, Dawn (Jeff) Genelin, and Dan Nelson; four granddaughters: Kacee and Samantha, Corinn and Ella; one grandson, Bryson; three siblings: Donald (Deb) Dascher, Stephen (Gretchen) Dascher, and Gregory Dascher; and also by great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.
Caryn was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Nelson; her daughter, Laura Mae Nelson; her parents, Melvin and Mabel (Anderson) Dascher; her brothers: Michael Dascher and Kenneth Dascher.
Out of respect for Caryn’s final wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. The family invites you to remember her in your own special way. To honor Caryn’s love for animals, memorial donations may be given to an animal shelter or humane society of your choice.
Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center in Altoona, is serving the family. To express condolences online, please visit www.chippewavalleycremation.com.
