Margaret A. Nelson Spear

Margaret A. Nelson Spear, 90, passed away January 2, 2024.

Margaret was Born on September 13, 1933, to Monte and Phyllis Heinzman in Augusta, KS.  She was the oldest of seven children.

Survivors include sons Roger (Christie); Steve (Melinda); daughters Valorie (William) Hagerman; Barbara (Matthew) Bachman; and many grand, great grand, and great-great grandchildren. 

Margaret graduated from North High School and worked at Joyland Amusement Park in the summer where she met the “love of her life”, Stan Nelson.  He was the “Ticket Man”, and she was his “Skeeball Queen”.  They married on Dec. 19, 1950, in what she would affectionately call a wonderful love affair of 60 years.  Together with family, they operated Joyland Amusement Park for over 50 years. 

In 1972, Stan became president of the IAAPA with Margaret as First Lady by his side where they enjoyed many memorable years with park owners from around the globe.   

Margaret was involved in her high school reunions, became the Chairman of the WIBA Board of Directors in 2002, and had many hobbies including knitting, weaving, hat making, sewing the festive costumes for “Louie” the clown, and playing cards with friends and family.  Although Margaret worked outside the home, she exemplified what the role of a gracious wife, mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother should be. Her extraordinary devotion to her husband and unconditional love and compassion for her family were just a sampling of her beautiful personality. Her strong will, sweet smile, infectious laugh, positive outlook on life and faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ only contributed to the impression she left with those she came in contact.

Above all, her true passion was making lasting memories with her family.

After Stan’s passing, Margaret married a family friend Gene Spear. They enjoyed five years together traveling and enjoying one another’s company before his passing.

A memorial has been established with:

AbilityPoint

2919 West 2nd St. N.

Wichita, KS 67203