Jo Ann Nelson

Jo Ann Nelson, age 80 of Hastings, passed away peacefully on May 3rd, 2026.

Jo Ann Nelson was born on June 18th, 1945 in Mankato, MN. She was the 4th of 5 children born to Eugene and Florence Sonnek.

As a young girl Jo enjoyed spending her time on the family farm in Southern MN. It was there that she gained an appreciation for hard and honest work and a strong sense of family. She went to school at MN State Mankato for her teaching degree. After college she spent some time abroad, where she was able to see the world outside of a farmhouse. She relocated to Hastings, MN where she went on to teach 2nd grade to many lucky children at Pinecrest Elementary.

As an adult, she loved to exercise, play volleyball, travel, and spend time with her loved ones. In 1969, she met the love of her life, Pete. They fell fast in love and were married in November 20, 1970.

Their family expanded as they welcomed their first born, Mike, in 1971. He was soon joined by Tony in 1973 and eventually Maggie in 1974. Her home was filled with the antics that only three children can bring, and the love that only a mother can give. While growing up, Jo dedicated her time to mostly raising her family, taking care of the many animals they owned, and tending to her beautiful gardens.

Jo transitioned through several jobs in her adult life. With each one she brought her sense of humor and dedication to each space. Whether it was working as a substitute teacher in Hastings Public Schools, a waitress at The Point, or lifting the bridge for Canadian Pacific Railway. Jo did everything with diligence, respect, and grace.

Of the many joys in her life, arguably one of the most impactful, was the role as a grandmother. Her home was filled for many years with the laughter, joy, and sometimes naughty choices of her 4 grandsons. Whether it was an overnight stay where she would push beds together for a sleepover or just a day visit to play outside, color, or play games. Her grandchildren truly appreciated the love and dedication that she put into their growing up.

In her later years, Jo enjoyed spending time with family, going for walks, baking cookies with her grandchildren, participating in puzzles and games of every kind, and watching her favorite shows. Even though there was never anything good on. She leaves behind her a legacy that is unmatched.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Eugene & Florence Sonnek; and sister, Jean Hefner. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Pete; her children, Mike (Karolyn), Tony (Teresa), and Maggie (Sheree); her grandchildren, Blake (Victoria), Carter, Logan, and Zach; her siblings, Greg (Donna) Sonnek, Bernie (Peg) Sonnek, and Dorothy (Bob) Lenertz; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Memorial Service at 11am on Thursday, May 7th, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, with visitation one hour prior. Inurnment at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Hastings Family Service.

Arrangements by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.