Colleen Nelson

Colleen Nelson, age 88, of River Falls passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, at Hammond Health Services.

Colleen was born and raised in St. Paul, where she attended Derham Hall High School, graduating with the Class of 1954. She later made River Falls her home, where she worked as a dedicated secretary at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls.

Colleen had a zest for life and a warm, spirited nature. She enjoyed square dancing and was an avid card player, especially fond of bridge. A passionate traveler, she delighted in seeing the world and carried deep pride in her Irish heritage. Above all, Colleen cherished her family — her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy and source of pride.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Rocky (Sandy) Joseph, Mike (Wende) Joseph, Matt Joseph, Michele (B Jay) Inserra, Anthony (Gabby) Joseph, James (Carrie) Joseph and Molly (Brian Evgen) Joseph; 14 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; 4 siblings; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Dave, as well as three brothers and a sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, 211 E Division St., River Falls, WI 54022. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.