MASON ~ Patricia Ann Nelson, 78, of Pekin, passed away Friday, November 28, 2014 at Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton.

Born March 3, 1936 in Mason to Gerald F. and Faneta (Nave) Norris, she married Larry Lee Nelson on December 3, 1956 in St. Elmo.  He died December 7, 2001 in Hopedale.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Melody Nelson; one brother, Jack Norris; and one infant sister, Virginia Norris.

Surviving are one daughter, Cheri (David) Wockley of Pekin; one grandson, Joel Wockley of Pekin; three sisters, Geraldine (Don) Schwartz of Altamont, Doris Austin of Mason, and Carol (Clayton) Case of Farina; and several nieces and nephews.

An officer of Larry Nelson Enterprises, Pat and Larry owned and operated the McDonald's Restaurants in Pekin, North Pekin, East Peoria, and Creve Coeur, retiring in 2000.  She also had worked for Ozier Rentals and in food service at the University of Illinois.

Pat and Larry supported numerous organizations, schools, programs, and events over the years.

Her family was an important part of her life, especially her grandson, Joel.  Pat enjoyed quilting, sewing, playing the organ and piano, and trips to Branson.

Her funeral will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.  The Rev. Dan Perry will officiate.  Visitation will be from 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Further services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 4, 2014 at Pagel Funeral Home in Edgewood.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2014 at Pagel Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Mason Cemetery in Mason, Illinois.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mason Cemetery Fund, Post Office Box 42, Mason, IL  62443.