Joan D. Nelson

She was born on May 28, 1954, in Iron Mountain, daughter of the late John and Dorothy (Olson) Kulman. A lifelong resident of the area, Joan graduated from Kingsford High School in 1972.

Joan pursued her passion for public service by attending Northern Michigan University, where she graduated from the police academy. Joan married Larry Nelson on May 7, 1988, at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. She served with dedication at Kingsford Public Safety for 12 years before stepping away to focus on raising her son, John. Later, she took a position at the Dickinson County Courthouse as a clerk and deputy magistrate. While working there, she earned an associate degree in criminology from Bay de Noc Community College. Her commitment and skill led to her appointment as Dickinson County Magistrate, a position she held with distinction for 17 years.

She was an avid Detroit Red Wings fan and found joy in photography, crocheting, and quilting.

Joan is survived by her loving husband, Larry Nelson; her son, John Nelson of Kingsford; her sister-in-law, Michelle “Mickey” Kulman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of Joan D. Nelson online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.