Lauren C. Nelson

PORTLAND – Lauren passed away at a medical facility in the greater Portland area on March 18, 2025, after a brief illness.

Lauren was born in Orange, N.J., the daughter of Jack L. Bogner and Carole M. (Limpert) Bogner. She grew up in Barre, Vt., before moving to Maine, residing in Westbrook for 39 years.

Lauren graduated from Deering High School in 1976, the bicentennial year. She played flute in the orchestra and high school marching band and marched in the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., 1976. Lauren graduated from Casco Bay College with an associate degree in secretarial science.

She worked for the Cumberland County Court House for many years, in those years she was secretary for the court administrator and the Casa Program. Following that, she worked for 25 years in food service for the Westbrook school system and finally, as head cook at Canal School. Working in the school food program was her greatest passion.

Lauren married Richard L. Nelson in August of 1980. They would have celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary this August.

She is survived by her husband, Richard; their two children, Stacy L. (Hart), Keith R.B. Nelson and his wife Laura (Howell) Nelson; and her dear cats Kevin and Kyle. She is also survived by her sister, Christine Bogner; brothers John Bogner; and Andrew Bogner, his wife Lisa Bogner, daughters Jaclyn and Taylor; and many nieces and nephews.

Lauren had a kind and caring heart. She loved animals and had many dogs and cats over the years, she also enjoyed feeding and caring for the wild birds in her back yard. She loved to go to the beach, collecting sea shells was her favorite pastime. Lauren also loved to go shopping and couldn’t resist a bargain.

Thank you to the Portland Spiritualist Church, Westbrook school system and all our many family, friends and neighbors for your love and support. Thank you to the students at Canal School for their cards and letters.

At Lauren’s request, there will be no funeral. A celebration of Lauren’s life is planned for this summer. Arrangements have been made by A.T. Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Ave., Portland. To share memories of Lauren or to offer online condolences, please visit http://www.athutchins.com.