Youngstown-

Carole L. Nelsen, 83, passed away September 12, 2026, at her home.

Carole was born December 10, 1942, in New Waterford, a daughter of the late Earl K. and Inez Ward Bacon.

She was a graduate of Chaney High School in Youngstown and a former member of St. Christine Parish and Grace Lutheran Church.  Carole worked at various GM dealerships in the area as a service writer and later as a service manager. While employed at Buick Youngstown, she became the nation's first Ms. Goodwrench to advertise GM's dealer service departments and genuine GM parts.

She had a passion for show cars and attending drag races with her husband Keith. Carole loved her precious Westies and sharing memories of her childhood spent on her parents' farm. She was known as an amazing cook and will be missed by all who knew her.

Carole is survived by her cherished daughter, Bonnie Vaughan; stepdaughter Angie Perkins; stepson Jim Nelsen; sisters-in-law Judy Willoughby and Shirley Nelsen; brothers-in-law Chris (Shelley) Nelsen and Don Cunningham; her devoted and beloved caregivers, Lisa Maynard and Maureen Yambar; several nieces and nephews and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Keith Nelsen, whom she married on July 31, 1976, and who died on May 27, 2024; two sons, Benjamin Vaughan IV and Scot Vaughan; newborn daughter Cherie Vaughan; sisters Alice Pike, Linda Bacon and JoAnn Davis; brother Earl Bacon and brother-in-law Gary Nelsen.

Per Carole's wishes, she will be buried privately alongside her husband at Glenview Cemetery in East Palestine on Friday, September 18. No other services will be observed.

Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine is in charge of arrangements.