Salena Nelson went to live among her beloved stars on August 13, 2015.
She was born Salena Lynne Howard, April 8, 1975 in Kings City, California to Frederick “Freddy” Howard and Roselyn “Rosie” Axdahl. She lived most of her life in Battle Mountain and graduated from Battle Mountain High School in 1994. In high school Salena played volleyball and was voted Prom Queen.
After high school, Salena took a trip to Europe and later spent time in Boise and Las Vegas before settling in Battle Mountain. She worked several years at the tanker base for the BLM.
The joy of her life was found in her two daughters Madison Pappas, 16, and Kasia Nelson, 12. They spent hours together in the kitchen doing crafts and trying new recipes. Salena was an excellent cook and avid gardener. She encouraged adventures for her girls, whether it be a spontaneous airplane ride with an old friend or visits to Disneyland, Yellowstone or museums with family. She loved her girls!
Salena enjoyed books and learning. She earned her Associates Degree from Great Basin College (GBC) and worked for a while as a substitute teacher. She later pursued a life-long passion and got her cosmetology license. Most recently, she worked to get into the Nursing Program at GBC, making many good friends in the process. Unfortunately, illness prevented her from continuing in the program.
In addition to her daughters Maddie and Kasia, Salena is survived by her mother, Rosie, her siblings Fred Howard Jr., Jammie Corria, and Calixtra Uribe, and her “Port in the Storm,” Johna Reeves. Salena endeared herself to many people throughout her life.
A memorial will be held on Friday, August 21, at 645 North 1st Street (across from Lions Park) at 6:00 p.m. Bring your own drinks, a side dish and a memory to share.
