Kimberly Erin Nelson, beloved spouse, mom, daughter, aunt, cousin and friend, passed away on Jan. 10, 2024, at her home in Auburn, Washington from an unexpected health event. She is deeply missed by her loving spouse, Debby Nelson Nelson; treasured children, Lacey (Joe) Malone, Dylan and Bryan Nelson; parents, Bonnie and Larry Nelson; siblings, Kurt (Tina), Erick (Odell); nieces and nephews, Karinne (Isaiah Davis), Kaleb Nelson, Shelby Kay (Juston) Lindsley, Wyatt and Tristan Nelson; numerous cousins and lifelong friends. Waiting to welcome her home are grandparents, Russell and Clara Nelson, and Bob and Betty Currey.
Kymmie's family moved to Randle, Washington, when she was 3 years old. She treasured her memories of growing up in Randle, where her family had a few horses, pigs and cows. The care of these animals provided many life lessons. The beautiful mountainous surroundings that she loved exploring planted the seeds for her love of the outdoors. Kym attended Randle Elementary School from first grade and graduated White Pass High School in 1987. She was involved in sports throughout her school career and had a special love for volleyball. Besides playing varsity volleyball, she was on a club volleyball team from Longview, which traveled to Russia, Australia and Hawaii while staying with families of volleyball players from teams they played in those places. If she wasn't playing sports, you could find her horseback riding, which continued to be a lifelong love of Kym's. Kym also treasured her memories from Catholic Youth Organization summer camp as a young camper, counselor and finally head wrangler. She made and maintained lasting friends from her CYO days. Raised with two brothers, Kymmie was always open to a new adventure and undaunted by new challenges that sprung up. She could buck bales, back up a truck, pull a trailer or mend fences with the best of them! Beginning in her youth and throughout her life, Kym exhibited a desire to learn, a delightful sense of humor, honesty, kindness and respect, which is reflected in the lifelong friendships she has garnered throughout her young life.
Following her high school graduation, she attended and graduated Central Washington University with a degree in education. Her teaching career began at Morton Elementary School, where she taught preschool special education and coached volleyball. After several years, she transferred to Kent School District and then in later years to Auburn School District. In her position as a preschool special education professional, she became greatly respected for her knowledge and expertise in the field of autism spectrum disorder. In addition to her passion for teaching, Kym continued to share her love of volleyball as assistant varsity volleyball coach. She furthered her education earning her National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification. After earning Principal/Administrative Certification, Kym became principal of Valley View Early Learning Center in Highline School District.
A co-worker said it best when she described Kym as a passionate leader with deep love and commitment to the youngest learners and their families. She was recognized as the 2020 Outstanding Administrator by the Highline Schools Foundation for her tireless advocacy for preschool education. She developed Valley View into a regional model for early learning, making a significant and lasting contribution. Kym's positive impact on students and families was extraordinary.
Kym has made our world a better place. She will be sorely missed by all who were blessed by her presence. Her dedication and love for family was foremost in her life. The ache to hear her teasing voice, see the joyous twinkle in her eyes, feel her strengthening hug or bask in her genuine love will be eased by the knowledge that she is at peace in her eternal home with others she loves.
A family service will be held at 2 p.m. on Feb. 4, 2024, at Creator Lutheran Church, 16702 S Tapps Drive E., Bonney Lake, Washington, and a celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on March 2, 2024, at Highline High School Auditorium, 225 S. 152nd St., Burien.
