Mary was born on December 23, 1972, in West Point, Nebraska, and grew up in Bancroft, Nebraska. Her small-town roots were always part of who she was, even as life took her on incredible journeys, both personally and professionally. No matter where she went or what she accomplished, the people she loved were always at the heart of her world.
Mary was an accomplished and respected leader in the financial services industry, serving as Head of Sales for the Lakes Region and as President and CEO of Allstate Financial Services. She was driven, hardworking, and passionate about what she did. Her educational journey began at Bancroft-Rosalie High School, followed by Lincoln School of Commerce and Bellevue University. Her dedication to continued learning and professional growth also led her to the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Northwestern University.
Beyond her professional achievements, Mary believed in giving back to her community. She proudly served on the boards of Friendship Home and No Shave Nebraska, dedicating her time and leadership to causes that made a difference in the lives of others. Her generosity, compassion, and willingness to help reflected the caring person she was.
She was proud of her accomplishments, but her success never defined what mattered most to her.
Above all else, Mary loved her family.
For 30 years, Mary shared a wonderful life with her husband, Blake. She was his wife, his best friend, his partner in life’s adventures, and his soulmate. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, unforgettable travels, wonderful friendships, and memories that will forever be treasured. Through life’s ups and downs, they were a team, sharing a love and companionship that meant everything to them.
Being a mother to Emma and Brayden was one of Mary’s greatest joys. She loved her children deeply and was incredibly proud of the people they had become. She treasured the moments spent together, from everyday family memories to life’s biggest milestones. One of her special joys was coaching Emma in volleyball, where she shared her competitive spirit, encouragement, and love for her daughter. Another particularly proud moment was watching her son, Brayden, follow in her footsteps by joining the Allstate family. Knowing they shared that professional connection brought Mary a special sense of pride and happiness. Whether she was cheering her children on, offering advice, or simply spending time together, her love for Emma and Brayden was always present.
Mary had a wonderful way of making life fun. She loved traveling the world, shopping, spending time with family and friends, and, perhaps most of all, bringing people together. She loved hosting parties, celebrating holidays, and filling a room with the people she cared about. There was always a reason to gather, share a laugh, enjoy a good meal, and make another memory.
Mary was also a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees, and Nebraska volleyball, and loved watching and cheering on her favorite teams. Another special place in her heart was the Nelson Oasis, the pool at her and Blake’s home, where she enjoyed relaxing, soaking up the sunshine, and spending time with family and friends. Whether it was a beautiful summer day by the pool, a gathering with loved ones, or simply enjoying the comforts of home, the Nelson Oasis was a place where so many wonderful memories were made and where countless more will continue to be made, keeping Mary’s love and spirit alive. For Mary, it wasn’t necessarily about what everyone was doing, but about being together and enjoying life’s moments.
And then there was Mary’s personality. She was funny, outgoing, caring, determined, strong-willed, and wonderfully herself. She had a big personality, an even bigger heart, and a way of making her presence known wherever she went. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, and those who knew her wouldn’t have wanted her any other way.
Of course, anyone who knew Mary can probably still hear her saying one of her favorite words: “Really?” Depending on the moment, it might have been a genuine question, a little sarcasm, or her way of telling you exactly what she thought. Sometimes it was all in the way she said it or the look on her face. It was simply Mary, and it’s one of those little things that will bring a smile to our faces whenever we think of her.
Mary had a special place in her heart for her family and friends. She valued the relationships she built, the traditions they shared, and the time they spent together. Whether she was planning the next trip, organizing a gathering, or enjoying an evening surrounded by loved ones, Mary had a way of turning ordinary moments into special memories.
Mary leaves behind her loving husband of 30 years, Blake Nelson; her cherished children, Emma and Brayden Nelson; her mother, Wanda M. Larsen; her siblings, Donnie (Amy), Connie (Dan), Teresa (Brent), and Tony (Shelly); her in-laws, Conrad T. Nelson and Lucy A. Nelson; her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Layne (Deb Arends), Robin (Jeff), and Suzan (Don); along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Donald A. Larsen, and her sisters-in-law, LeAnn Larsen and Cheri Nelson.
Mary’s passing at just 53 leaves an emptiness in the hearts of everyone who loved her. There were still so many places to explore, celebrations to host, laughs to share, and memories to make. Though her time with us was far too short, the love and joy she brought into our lives will remain forever.
To Blake, she was his one true love, best friend, soulmate, and closest confidante—the person he trusted most and shared life’s joys and challenges with. To Emma and Brayden, she was so much more than Mom. She was their greatest source of love and support, the person they could always turn to for advice, comfort, and encouragement. To her family and friends, she was someone who made life brighter, more meaningful, and a whole lot more fun.
Mary, you were loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure. Though our hearts are broken, we will carry your love, laughter, and beautiful memories with us every day. This isn’t goodbye forever, but simply goodbye for now. Until we meet again, you will forever be in our hearts.
Visitation will be held on Friday November 6th, 2026, 5:00-6:30 p.m. at Roper and Sons South Chapel (3950 Hohensee Drive, Lincoln).
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday November 7th, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Sheridan Lutheran Church (6955 Old Cheney Rd, Lincoln, NE).