Pamela Jeanene Nelson Obituary in Ankeny at Memorial Services of Iowa

Obituary For Pamela Jeanene Nelson

Pamela Jeanene Nelson, 80, of Ankeny, IA, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 4, 2026, at the Ankeny First United Methodist Church, Christian Life Center (710 NE 36th St., Ankeny), followed by a visitation and luncheon. Interment will take place the same day at 3:00 p.m. at North Lawn Cemetery, Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Pamela was born September 27, 1945, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Laura (Crotts) and Morris Durnell. She attended school in Fort Dodge, IA, graduating in 1964. During high school she was involved in Distributive Education. She participated in the Miss Fort Dodge Pageant, part of the Miss America Pageants, and received first runner up, which involved modeling opportunities. Pamela preferred spending time with her treasured horses and participated in barrel racing in rodeos and long rides in nature.

She worked at Fantles Department Store in Fort Dodge as a window display designer and designing continued to play a role throughout her lifetime. Pamela studied Interior Decorating and received her diploma from LaSalle Extension University in 1977. She also studied and became a Master Florist, working at three different florist shops before retiring.

She was an avid quilter, winning first place awards at the Iowa State Fair, and enjoyed decorating her home. An article in the Fort Dodge Messenger, shared about her love of quilting and collection of Heart-themed items. She loved St. Valentine’s Day and Christmas.

She was featured on KCCI news when interviewed her about her impressive angel collection. She was involved in the Angel Collectors Club of America, and many lasting friendships were made with like-minded members. Pamela enjoyed sharing about angels and their love for us, as she had strong faith in God. She was happiest when spending time with her family and friends, providing food and much love.

On January 8, 1965, Pamela married her beloved husband, William Durwood Nelson. They were happily married, with many life adventures together, for 61 years. They especially enjoyed traveling together. To this union, three children were born. Pamela was a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker. Many moves occurred during this marriage and she made each new house feel like home.

Pamela was proud of her three children and all their accomplishments. She dearly loved her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pamela is survived by her children, Hope (Scott) Johnson of Jefferson, IA, Justin (Danielle) Nelson of Fairbanks, AK, and Zachariah (Lisa) Nelson of Lee’s Summit, MO; her grandchildren, Caleb, Emelia, Katelynn, Alexandra, Elijah, and Jonah; and her great-grandsons, Daniel and William.

She is also survived by her cherished sister, Laurie (Gus) Gonzalez, her brother, David (Audra) Durnell; and many nieces and nephews.

Pamela was preceded in death by her husband, William, on February 10, 2026; her father, Morris Durnell; her mother, Laura (Crotts/Durnell) Gilpin; grandparents, several aunts and uncles, as well as her father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in law, and sisters-in-law.

The family would like to thank the staff at Rock Creek Senior Living in Ankeny and Suncrest Hospice, who took such excellent care of Pamela.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ankeny First United Methodist Church, Christian Life Center.

Send flowers to the service of Pamela Jeanene Nelson