Erla Rae Nelson, 78, passed away December 23, 2009 at her home in Arlington, WA. She was born to Earl and Vera Snyder March 11, 1931 in Ellensburg, WA.

Rae graduated from Franklin High School in Seattle, WA in 1949. In 1992, she retired after 30 years of being the co-owner with her husband Jim of Nelson Petroleum.

Rae enjoyed animals, especially cats and horses. She loved life, people and most of all her family.

Preceding her in death was her husband of 51 years, Jim Nelson in 2004, her mother Vera Speir in 2005 and her sister Cherie Mathies in 2007.

Rae is survived by her children, Mark (Jody) Nelson of Marysville, Carla (Jim) Donnelson of Arlington; 7 grandchildren, Josie (Andy) Kyriss, Curtis, Daniel, Chad and Jesse Donnelson, Dustin (Lindsey) Nelson, Kristen Nelson and 4 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the Arlington Free Methodist Church, 730 E. Highland Dr., Arlington, WA.