Mary J. Nielsen

Obituary's Biography:

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Jean Nielsen on January 17, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on November 14, 1942 in Elgin, IL, she brought light and kindness into the world from the moment she arrived.

Mary was a woman of extraordinary strength, grace, and compassion. She dedicated her life to raising her family, caring for others, and being a living example of extraordinary character. She has touched countless lives with her wisdom, humor, and boundless love.

She was the heart of her family, always putting others before herself and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories. A woman of many talents, Mary was a fantastic baker whose brownies and fudge were legendary among friends and family. Her happiest times were when she was with her grandchildren. She lit up whenever she was with them and was so proud of their accomplishments. Mary devoted many years working in the front office of Dakota K Auto Repair in Arlington Heights and continued to share stories of the fantastic customers and friends made while working there up to her last days.  

She had a passion for life’s simple joys, including camping, Friday night bingo, long talks with loved ones and spirited games that revealed her competitive side. She would never turn down a game (or twenty) of Skip-bo, Tri-Ominos, Uno, Monopoly or cards and would show no mercy. She loved to watch Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and anything else that was on the Game Show Network. Mary loved to watch the news and discuss current events and share her thoughts on The Bears and politics, always sparking lively discussions. Her incredible sense of humor and magnetic personality will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mary was the beloved mother to her children Natalie (Bart) Hoppe, Michele (John Treichler) Nielsen, John Nielsen V, Adam (Nicola) Nielsen, Kim (Joe) Disalvo, Melissa (Brent) Dominowski, Shelly Nielsen and beloved grandma to her grandchildren John Nielsen VI, Megan Nielsen, Emily Nielsen, Kaitlyn Disalvo, Rachel Disalvo, Dylan Dominowski, Rylee Dominowski, Kyle Nielsen, Carter Nielsen, Cole Nielsen, Brayden Nielsen, and Hannah Soukup. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband John Nielsen IV, her sons Todd Nielsen and Chad Nielsen and her brother Ernie Rockensock.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm with the funeral service commencing at 8:00pm at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. Interment will be privately held. For more information, please call (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Although she is no longer with us, her legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will live on in all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished.