Francis Nelson

Francis (Hans) Nelson Hans Nelson, 84, of Oconomowoc, passed away February 28, 2013. Hans was born and lived in Oconomowoc all of his life. He married Marie McLaughlin on February 25, 1950. For more than 40 years Hans and Marie owned and operated Lakeland Bakery in Pewaukee. Through their business, the couple made many friends and loyal customers throughout the Lakes region as they delivered bread, hard rolls, and doughnuts to local grocery stores, churches and restaurants. Loyal customer cravings for morning doughnuts were created from Hans' 20-hour workdays, which began in the wee hours of the morning. During his bakery career, he worked 7 days per week, and only took 2 days off so as not to cause any sugar withdrawal for his customers. Hans strongly believed in supporting your local small business. His belief was business should always serve the customer. A successful small business person will always open the door early, stay late, keep the money in the community and thereby improve and strengthen that community and its families. While in business and retirement, his loyalty to the backbone of American business never faltered. Hans was a lifelong devoted member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, where his white stool became a familiar fixture at the back of the church. He also served the community for 30 years as a member of the LaBelle Cemetery board, including several years as President. Hans is survived by his daughter Betsy (Alex) Gosse and son Greg (Marilyn) Nelson. Also surviving Hans are grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, great-nephew, nieces, cousins, and in-laws. Hans is preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Hattie; wife, Marie; brother Stanley and daughter, Patti Lynn. The family would like to give special thanks to Aunt Barb, Nephew Gary, and Scrooge (bakery employee) for all of their unselfish love and assistance. Visitation will be at Pagenkopf Funeral Home on Friday, March 1st, from 4 – 7 PM. Funeral services will be held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church at noon on Saturday, March 2nd. Memorials are appreciated to Our Savior's Lutheran Church, LaBelle Cemetery or to a charity of the donor's choice.