Linda Garrison Nelson

Linda Garrison Nelson passed away at the graceful age of 75 on Friday, July 28, 2023.

Linda was born in Great Falls, Montana to John and Catherine Garrison on September 16, 1947. Linda and her family lived in a multitude of different places growing up. Along with her birthplace of Great Falls, MT, they resided in Missoula, MT and Beaverton, OR. She attended Beaverton High School where she graduated with the class of 1965. She moved back to Fairfield, MT in 1975. This is where she met her future husband, Bruce Nelson. They were together for 3 years before they married on August 18, 1978 in Coeur d’Alene, ID. They were married for 45 wonderful years before Linda’s passing.

Linda was an extremely hard-working person and showed it in her work experience. She loved her job at 3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative where she advanced to the position of Programmer. Aside from 3 Rivers, she also worked for AT&T, the Great Falls Tribune, Selstads, and the Sun Prairie Water District.

When Linda wasn’t working, you could most often find her outside tending to her tomato plants and various other flowers. Plants weren’t the only item aplenty in Linda’s house. She took great pride in her collection of Coca-Cola related memorabilia and western art pieces. Most of all, Linda loved spending time with her family and furry friends. She gained lots of joy from all the animals (mostly cats and dogs) she’s had over the years. Her and Bruce would go on cruises across the waters together when they had the chance. She also enjoyed playing games. Whether it be a board or card game, she was always excited to make memories with the people she loved.

Linda is survived by her husband, Bruce Nelson; her sons, John (Rhonda) Nelson of Helena, MT, Bruce F (Kris) Nelson of Great Falls, MT, and Todd Nelson of Riley, KS; her brothers, David Garrison of Spokane, WA, and Joe (Linda) Garrison of Beaverton, OR; her two nephews, Michael and Robert; her five granddaughters, Faith, Haley, Hope, Danielle, and Kady; her two grandsons, Ty and Trace; and her five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Catherine Garrison; and her parents-in-law, Elton and Rachel Nelson.

A Celebration Of Life will be held at the Pit Stop in Great Falls, MT on September 16, 2023. Details will be posted to Facebook at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter.

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