Ardis S. Nelson, 79, of East Peoria passed away at 5:35pm Monday, April 16, 2018 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. She was born June 9, 1938 in Pelican Rapids, MN to Alfred and Anna Andersen Sanden. She married David V. Nelson on September 23, 1960 in Pelican Rapids, MN; he preceded her in death on June 30, 2012. Surviving are three children, John (Murren) Nelson of Orange Park, FL, Mark Nelson of Flowery Branch, GA, and Kirsten Nelson of Oak Park, IL; and two grandchildren, Katherine and Luke Nelson. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and two siblings, John and Eleanor Sanden. Ardis loved her hometown and attended every Class of 1956 reunion. She especially loved her lake cottage and enjoyed fishing there. She was proud of her heritage, she spoke Norwegian and expertly baked traditional Norwegian recipes. Being immensely creative, Ardis enjoyed painting, quilting, and lace-making. Cremation rites have been accorded by Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Inurnment will be at a later date.