Melissa Nelson (Bushnell)

Melissa Nelson (Bushnell), age 62, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, with her daughters and mother by her side. She was a devoted mother, proud "Maka", and an amazing friend to many.

Melissa was born on March 29, 1963, in Eugene, Oregon, to Suzanna Moody and Donald Bushnell. She attended Mounds View High School in Arden Hills, MN and earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management. Melissa built a successful career as a financial analyst in the medical device industry and truly enjoyed her work.

Over the years she lived many places including Oregon, California, Texas, Minnesota and Wisconsin. She made her final home in Maplewood, Minnesota, where she enjoyed a life abundant in family, friends, and adventures.

Melissa's faith in God remained a guiding light throughout her life. She trusted His plan, every step of the way. A favorite MercyMe song reflected her heart: "I know you're able and I know you can save through the fire with your mighty hand-but even if you don't, my hope is you alone." A true warrior, she faced life's challenges with courage, determination, and unwavering faith in God's purpose for her and those she loved. We take comfort knowing she is in Heaven, forever shining down on us.

San Diego was her happy place, where she loved watching the waves and sunsets. She counted down the days to the Minnesota State Fair every year and spent as many days as she could playing whack a mole, riding the crazy mouse, visiting the horse barn, and enjoying an annual Summer Shandy. Fortunately, she bought a bench (Whacky Family) so we will always be able to sit with her for a while, perhaps while enjoying an ear of corn. She passed down her love and delight for the state fair to her kids and grandkids. She was an avid concertgoer and saw multiple Journey, PINK, and Taylor Swift performances plus many other artists (too many to count!). She loved going to live shows and dancing the night away with her friends and family. She spent many hours outdoors hiking, paddle boarding, and enjoying her garden.

Melissa had a selfless heart, loving people deeply and without condition. She truly believed in people, often before they believed in themselves. She made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her love language was gift giving and she was always on the hunt for the perfect presents and cards for her loved ones, many times just because. We all know though that her greatest present was her presence in our lives.

Melissa's greatest joy was found in her family and friends. She was a loving mother to Jessica Dahl (Nate), Olivia Rodriguez (Matt), Christina "Helena" Pemberton, Tanya Nelson, and Stacy Nelson (Justin), as well as her dog, Thumper. She was a cherished Grandma, or "Maka," to her 11 grandchildren-Linnea, Audrielle, Maddy, Blake, Annalise, Sammy, River, Vance, Gavin, Elliott, and Harlow-and her grand dog, Sparrow, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Melissa also treasured her many friendships, including her sister-by-choice, Sherry Mosner; her longtime friends Shelley Akey, Diane Bauer, and Jeanne Stronczer; as well as her partner, Sylla.

Melissa is preceded in death by her dad, Donald Bushell and her cherished dogs Tiffy, Noah and her grand dog Dixie.

A Visitation and Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, December 29th, 2025 at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center in White Bear, Minnesota, with visitation from 1:00-3:00 p.m., followed by a service at 3:00 p.m. Refreshments will follow the service - she always loved a good get-together.

Though she is no longer with us, Melissa's legacy of love, kindness, giving, adventurous spirit and light live on in those who were blessed enough to know her. The family thanks all of Melissa's doctors, nurses, and caregivers over the past year for helping us navigate this difficult journey and for providing the most kind and compassionate care for our mom.