Kimberly Erin Nelson, beloved spouse, mom, daughter, aunt, cousin and friend, passed away on Jan. 10, 2024 at her home in Auburn, WA from an unexpected health event at the age of 54.
She is deeply missed by her loving spouse Debby Nelson, treasured children Lacey (Joe) Malone, Dylan and Bryan Nelson, parents-Bonnie and Larry Nelson, siblings- Kurt (Tina), Erick (Odell), nieces and nephews- Karinne (Isaiah Davis), Kaleb Nelson, Shelby Kay (Juston) Lindsley, Wyatt and Tristan Nelson, numerous cousins and lifelong friends. Waiting to welcome her home are grandparents, Russell and Clara Nelson, Bob and Betty Currey.
Kymmie’s family moved to Randle, WA when she was 3-years-old. She treasured her memories of growing up in Randle where her family had a few horses, pigs and cows. The care of these animals provided many life lessons. The beautiful mountainous surroundings that she loved exploring planted the seed for her ongoing love of the outdoors. Kym attended Randle Elementary School from 1st grade and graduated White Pass High School in 1987. She was involved in sports throughout her school career and had a special love for volleyball. Besides playing varsity volleyball, she was on a Club volleyball team from Longview, WA which traveled to Russia, Australia, and Hawaii staying with families of volleyball players from teams they played in those countries. If she wasn’t playing sports, you could find her horseback riding which continued to be a lifelong love of Kym’s. For Kym, riding Beau or Chocolate was energizing, peaceful and she would dismount counting her many blessings. Kym also treasured her memories from CYO summer camp as a young camper, counselor and finally Head Wrangler. She made and maintained lasting friends from her CYO days. Raised with two brothers, Kymmie was always open to a new adventure and undaunted by new challenges that sprung up. She could buck bales, back up a truck, pull a trailer, or mend fences with the best of them! Beginning in her youth and throughout her life, Kym exhibited a desire to learn, a delightful sense of humor, honesty, kindness, and respect which is reflected in the lifelong friendships she has garnered throughout her young life.
Following her high school graduation, she attended and graduated Central WA University with a degree in Education. Her teaching career began at Morton Elementary School where she taught preschool special education and coached volleyball. After several years, she transferred to Kent School District and then in later years to Auburn School District. In her position as preschool special education professional, she became greatly respected for her knowledge and expertise in the field of autism spectrum disorder. In addition to her passion for teaching, Kym continued to share her love of volleyball as assistant Varsity volleyball coach. She furthered her education earning her National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. After earning Principal/Administrative Certification, Kym became principal of Valley View Early Learning Center in Highline School District.
A co-worker said it best when she described Kym as a passionate leader with deep love and commitment to the youngest learners and their families. She was recognized as the 2020 Outstanding Administrator by the Highline Schools Foundation for her tireless advocacy for preschool education. She developed Valley View into a regional model for early learning, making a significant and lasting contribution. Kym’s positive impact on students and families was extraordinary.
Kym has made our world a better place. She will be sorely missed by all who were blessed by her presence. Her dedication and love for family was foremost in her life. The ache to hear her teasing voice, see the joyous twinkle in her eyes, feel her strengthening hug, or bask in her genuine love will be eased by the knowledge that she is at peace in her eternal home with others she loves. Let us honor her memory as we reach out to others with love, laughter and joy!
A family service will be held at 2 p.m. on Feb. 4, 2024 at Creator Lutheran Church, 16702 S. Tapps Drive E., Bonney Lake, Washington, and a Celebration of Life will be held on March 2, 2024, at Highline High School Auditorium, 225 S. 152nd St., Burien.
EDITOR’S NOTE: We publish Obituaries for a much lower cost – just $125 each – than a Seattle newspaper (plus, we rank very high in Google searches)! Please email text and a photo to scott@southkingmedia.com.
Be First to Comment