Vivian Jane Nels

Vivian Jane Nels started her life's journey in 1920 in a small home in the cowboy town of Globe, Arizona. Parents Walter Earl and Ides Baldwin raised Vivian Jane, along with her younger sister Erladale (Ed), in challenging times. The family moved from Globe to Whittier, California, during the Great Depression, and it was there that Vivian Jane graduated high school. At age 16, she was invited by a girlfriend to a dance in San Diego where a handsome young sailor swept her off her feet. It was only two years later when that sailor, Albert Nels, was granted a 30 day shore leave. During that leave, Vivian Jane and Albert took a bus to Ohio to meet Albert's parents, and stopped on their way in Reno, Nevada, on May 29, 1939, where a Justice of the Peace pronounced them husband and wife. Al and Vivian arrived in Al's hometown of Barberton a few days later, where Vivian met his very surprised--and pleased--family. Their vows resulted in a 72 year marriage--one her husband called "a wonderful journey."
Within two years, Albert and Vivian began their family. Their first son, Hobby, was born in a Navy hospital in San Diego. Two years later, after moving to Dayton, son Terry joined the household. An unexpected arrival 10 years later in the form of a third son, Albert, rounded out the family.
Vivian Jane was an incredible wife and mother, and a strong, compassionate example to her family. She was a caring Christian woman who opened the doors of the Nels home to all, whether it be a troubled neighbor, her sons' buddies, or her many friends. Grandchildren could not wait to visit Grandma, as she always had a special place for them to play and explore. She and sister Erladale maintained an especially close relationship throughout their adult lives, and spoke on a daily basis. They considered themselves fortunate to live close to one another, and their families never missed an occasion to gather, whether it be holidays or birthdays.
Vivian Jane's roles were many, from serving as driver for Hobby and Terry's teenage landscaping business to preparing feasts that would warm the soul and heart during Thanksgiving and Christmas. When reassured that all her sons were college bound, she joined the workforce as an apprentice dental technician, and became well regarded for her ability to construct seemingly impossible orthodontic appliances.
Her spirit of adventure prompted her to try everything from hot air balloon flights with son Al to bumper boat rides with her grandchildren. This zest for life also led her to travel throughout the U.S. and around the world. Her interest in family and travels provided many wonderful memories, as well as a wealth of material for her many scrapbooks.

Vivian Jane is survived by her husband, Albert; her sister and brother-in-law, Erladale and Ted Lochtefeld; and her three sons and their wives: Hobby and wife Paula; Terry and wife Daryl; and Albert and wife Lorene. Her legacy continues in grandchildren Andrew, Ashley, Becky, Kelsey, Kevin, Kirby, Korri, Melissa and Michael, and in eight great-grandchildren (soon to be nine).
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the many wonderful and caring healthcare providers who enhanced Vivian Jane's health and quality of life, and especially to those at Miami Valley Hospital, Trinity Community, and the fantastic private aides who assisted her. For those wishing to honor Vivian Jane's memory, donations may be made to the Humane Society or charity of the donor's choice.