Deborah Jean Nelson, 53, of Syracuse, died at 8:35 a.m. July 1, 2013, in her residence. She was born March 1, 1960, in Canton, Ohio, to Edward and Darlene “Dee” DuPlain Shannon, who survive in Canton. On Dec. 17, 1988, in Canton, she married Jack Nelson, who survives. She moved to Syracuse 17 years ago. She graduated from Jackson High School, Canton; IPFW; and received a master’s degree from Ball State University. She was a kindergarten teacher at Syracuse Elementary School. In Canton, she worked at Head Start as a teacher and principal. She also taught vacation Bible school. She attended Nappanee Missionary Church for the last 12 years and was a table leader at Wednesday night Oasis. Also surviving are a son, Chett (and spouse April) Nelson, Goshen; a daughter, Stephanie (and spouse Craig) Nelson-Cormany, Colorado; grandchildren; a brother, Michael (and spouse Yoko) Shannon, Okinawa, Japan; a sister, Michelle “Shelly” (and spouse Russ) Satterfield, Lake Mohawk, Ohio; and a grandmother, Sophia DuPlain, Louisville, Ohio. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Nappanee Missionary Church with Pastors Dave Engbrecht and Justin Lamason officiating. Burial will be in Olive Cemetery, Wakarusa. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. ***** Memorials may be given to Syracuse Elementary School. Condolences may be sent via www.tlyfh.com
