Obituary for Madonna Rose Nelson

Madonna Rose Nelson, 84, of Bettendorf, IA, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House surrounded by her loving family. A Rosary will be prayed at 9:30 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life Mass at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 29, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 4097 18th Street, Bettendorf, IA 52722. Family and friends are warmly invited to join in honoring her life and faith.

Madonna was born on May 12, 1941, to Sebastian and Mabel (Hoese) Werthmann in Davenport, IA. She graduated from Davenport Assumption Highschool. On June 9, 1962, Donald Nelson and Madonna were united in marriage. Madonna was known for her love of garage sale hunting, tending to her garden, puzzles, baking for anyone and everyone, and being quick with a joke and sass. She was a consistent kind face at St. John Vianney often spending time with friends, volunteering, and attending mass. 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Nelson, her parents Sebastian and Mabel Werthmann, and siblings Leon Werthmann, Joan Hostens, Elayne Lyons, Mary Crews, Roger Werthmann, Jerome Werthmann, Barbara McCormick, Geraldine Kreusch, and Bernie Werthmann. 

Madonna is survived by her son Rick (Kyle) Nelson of Nashville, TN; son Doug (Diane) Nelson of Bettendorf, IA; son Keith (Carmen) Nelson of Old Hickory, TN; daughter Rozanne (Eddie) Frazier of Murfreesboro, TN; son Randy (Kelly) of Ashland, OH; 14 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. 

Memorial donations may be directed to the St. John Vianney in Bettendorf.