Sandy L. Nelson

Sandra Louise Nelson (Kastner, Kern) passed away suddenly on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Known to many as Sandy, she was a devoted mother, loving wife, cherished grandmother, beloved daughter, and dear sister who always brought laughter and joy to those around her.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Brad Nelson; her former husband, Allan Kern; her children, Erica Bingham (Chris), Jeffrey Kern (Aly), and Kayla Acri (Nick); her grandchildren, Adrien, Ashton, Eva, Alden, and Oliver; her mother, Marilyn; her mother-in-law, Pat Nelson; her siblings, Susan Paulsen (Jim), Sharon Payment (Jeff), John Kastner (Kari), and Chris Kastner (Deanna); her sister-in-law, Barb Schroeder (Brett); her brother-in-law, Marty Nelson (Katie); and many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, John Kastner, and her lifelong friend, Lisa Drummond. 

Sandy was the life of the party, always the class clown. She had a knack for playing tricks, making jokes, and being sneaky. Her antics never failed to bring a smile to everyone's face, whether it was hiding whoopee cushions under chairs or telling hilarious stories at family gatherings. She loved karaoke and could often be found belting out her favorite tunes, bringing everyone together for a good time. Sandy also had a deep love for the outdoors, gardening, flowers, hunting, fishing, and camping, finding joy and peace in nature's embrace. She was very caring and dedicated over 30 years of her life to nursing, touching many lives with her compassion and dedication. 

 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 31,2024 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake.  Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake and one hour prior to mass at the church.  Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake.  A luncheon will follow immediately after the interment at the church.  Sandy's warmth, humor, and spirit will be deeply missed, but her legacy of laughter, fun, and love for nature will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.