Chelsie Nelson, 46, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on March 5, 2025, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.
Chelsie was born on October 20, 1978, at Nuernberg Army Hospital in Germany to Robert and Roxann (Sheesley) Nelson. She was a proud graduate of Grinnell High School and later earned her cosmetology certification from Goodland Vo-Tech. Chelsie began her career at CheckHers & His in Grinnell before moving to Hays, where she worked at Hairware & Co.
In addition to her professional career, Chelsie was an active and beloved member of the Hays Community Theater, where she formed lasting friendships. She was passionate about the arts, taking on the roles of hairstylist, makeup artist, and costume designer for countless performances. Her creative spirit and warm personality made her an integral part of the theater family.
Chelsie was a dedicated member of the Grinnell United Methodist Church and the Grinnell VFW Post 2864 Auxiliary.
She was preceded in death by her grandmother Fern Sheesley, grandfather Fred Sheesley, and father Robert Nelson.
She is survived by her mother, Roxann “Roxie” Nelson of Grinnell; her brother, Allen of Raytown, MO; her nephew Connor Nelson of Lawrence, KS; her uncle, Fred Sheesley of Hays and her cousins, Scott Sheesley (U.S. Army) of Joplin, MO, Elodie Jones of Hays, Sam, Tony and George Hayak, all of Denver, CO, J.C. and Cynthia Snare, both of Colorado Springs, CO.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Grinnell VFW, with burial to follow at the Grinnell Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hays Community Theater in Chelsie’s name, a cause she was deeply passionate about, and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com