Irene Marie Nielsen

Longtime Alaska resident Irene Marie Nielsen, 52, passed away peacefully July 31, 2014, at Granny’s Log Cabin in Wasilla.

A celebration of life is at 3 p.m., Aug. 10 at Palmer Church of the Nazarene, 1951 Hemmer Road, Palmer. Officiating at the service will be Pastor Joe Parreira.

Irene was born on Aug. 3, 1961, in Anchorage, and graduated from Service High School. Later in life she moved to Palmer. Irene was a Supervisor Contract Analysis Specialist retiring in April 1993. Her joys in life were fishing, gardening, playing Apples to Apples with friends and family, laughing, and cruising around in nice cars with her husband.

Irene had a contagious laugh that affected everyone. With dignity and grace she proved her strength to the world. Irene had many family traditions that she passed down to her daughters. She was the rock of her family and showed everyone how to stay strong and have faith. She was a beautiful and devoted bride to her best friend for 36 years. Irene absolutely adored her daughters, and cherished her four grandchildren. She had a special place in her heart for her friends and family. “Just remember, I’m forever your girl.”

Surviving are her husband, Sterling Nielsen of Palmer; daughters, Sheila May Woods of Palmer and Shala Cravens of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washing-ton; and many other family members.

Arrangements were cared for by Valley Funeral Home, Wasilla Chapel.