Kate A. (Dashner) Nelson, 64, Antioch, IL, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in Lake Zurich, IL. She was born March 19, 1961, in Green Bay, WI to the late Harvey and Kathleen (Bacon) Dashner.

Kate was a long-term employee of Abbot Labs and loved being involved in the lives of her family.

Kate is survived by her son Ryan Nelson; her brothers Dan Dashner and Michael Reynolds, and sister Linda (Sam) Giberson. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Matthew Blair, Daniel Blair, Nicole Blair, and great-niece EllaMae Blair.

She was preceded in death by her son Justin Nelson, who passed away November 23, 2006, her parents; Harvey and Kathleen Dashner, and her brother David Dashner.

Kate was a wonderful mother and an incredible sister. Her presence in our lives was a gift, and she will be missed more than words can say.

In accordance with her wishes, Kate has opted for a private ceremony.