Dixie L. Nelson, 79 of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully Friday, July 26, 2013 at her home. She was born March 18, 1934 in Grand Rapids the daughter of Charles and Merle (Hansen) Allen. Dixie made her home in Big Rapids, for nearly 50 years; she worked as a local real estate agent retiring after 25 years. She was very community minded with a special interest in the historical preservation of Big Rapids. Dixie was a devout and active member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Big Rapids. She is survived by her husband Vordyn Nelson; five children, Bruce Nelson of Florida, Renee (Jack) Izard of Gregory, MI, Diane (John) Hilfinger of Ann Arbor, MI, Julie (Calvin) Ruzicka of Arlington, TX, John Nelson of Three Rivers, CA; six grandchildren, Brian, Darron, Erik, Dana, Zachary, Mason; one great grandson, Caden and several nieces and nephews. Dixie was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Jack and Douglas Allen. A memorial service will take place 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 31, 2013 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 726 Fuller Ave., Big Rapids with Pastor Clay Bates officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to services. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions given to either the Immanuel Lutheran Church or Hospice of Michigan.