​Trudie Nelson of Kincardine remembered as a vibrant, warm, outgoing woman

Trudie Anne Nelson (nee Mason) of Kincardine died Oct. 8, 2025, at the Kincardine Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 81.

Born in Kincardine and raised on the ‘Ground She Grew Up On,’ in Ripley, Trudie was a vibrant, warm, and outgoing woman who never hesitated to strike up a conversation — with anyone, anywhere. She truly had a way about her.

Lovingly remembered by her daughters, Faye (Brad) Kirkconnell of Kincardine, and Dawn (Garry) McKinnon of Atikokan; her cherished grandchildren, Craig (Kelly) Kirkconnell, Jason (Kristen) Kirkconnell, and Rachel (Jerry) Gaylor; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Jordan, Kaitlyn, Makenna, Noah, Chloe, Aubrey, Caleb, Cohen, and Kali.

Also survived by her dear sister, Brenda Mason Beneduci (Thom) and family; in-laws, Jack and Wally Nelson; and many Mason family cousins.

Predeceased by her beloved parents, Donald and Annie Mason; and her brother, Bob Mason.

For nearly three decades, Trudie was a familiar face at the courtesy counter of Zehrs grocery store in Kincardine. She took great pride in her work and became a trusted, friendly figure for generations of customers. Even after retirement, she maintained close bonds with many of her co-workers, reflecting her loyalty and love of community.

In 1995, Trudie joined her daughter, Faye, and son-in-law, Brad, in adopting a garden plot at the Station Beach boardwalk — an act that became one of her great passions. She played a key role in co-ordinating the adoption of the remaining 30 garden plots, dedicating more than 25 years of volunteer service to the boardwalk gardens.

Her dedication was matched only by her warmth: she became the unofficial “boardwalk ambassador,” always ready to greet passersby with a smile, share local history, and offer suggestions on what to explore in town.

Trudie’s legacy lives on not only in her family, but in the community she loved and served so generously.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at The Bruce, located at 750 Queen St., Kincardine, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with sharing of memories at 12 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Trudie’s memory may be made to the Kincardine and Community Health Care Foundation or Allies for Alley Catz.

Donations and condolences on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.