Kimberley Ann Nelson

More than anything else, Kimberley Nelson was a teacher, first to her own family, then to others. She was born Kimberley Ann Hawkins on January 4th, 1964, in Wichita, Kansas. Her early childhood years were challenging, and it wasn't until 1969 when her father married Janet, the woman Kimberley considered her "mom", that she believed her life really started. Five years later, she was sealed in the Idaho Falls temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to her parents–what she would call one of the happiest days of her life. After graduating high school in 1982, Kimberley attended Washburn University for a year and then transferred to Brigham Young University, where she met the love of her life, Max Nelson. They married in 1984 in the Salt Lake Temple. Kimberley and Max had three children: Hannah, Emily, and David, and Kimberley considered herself very lucky to have the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mother for 20 years, teaching her children to read and love books as much as she did. As her children grew older, Kimberley's volunteering at the school transitioned into a job at the charter school American Preparatory Academy, where she spent the last 11 years of her life teaching. She loved her position–loved meeting children where they were, helping them discover the love of learning and the joy of reading. Kimberley touched those around her with her kindness, her beautiful singing voice, and her willingness to put others before herself. She is remembered as a baker, a gardener, a singer, and a faithful member of the Church, among other wonderful traits. Kimberley passed away at home on August 20, 2024, about a year and a half after being diagnosed with skin cancer. She is survived by her father, Bill Hawkins (Sally), as well as by her siblings: Bill (Robyn), Doug (Kristi), Toni (Ernie), Jennifer, and Rebecca (Claude); her husband, Max; her children: Hannah (Ben), Emily (Travis), and David; and her precious grandchild, James. She is preceded in death by her mom, Janet. A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 26th, at 12 pm at the LDS meetinghouse located at 1855 W 13400 S, with a graveside service at the Riverton City Cemetery at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, you are invited to donate to American Preparatory Academy's Special Education Department at: www.americanprepfoundation.org/inmemoryofkim/

Kimberley Ann Nelson

January 4, 1964 - August 20, 2024