Liza Nelson

Liza Nelson, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend, passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of 98 in Palm Desert, California. Born on May 6, 1926, in Biała Podlaska, Poland, and raised in Paris, France, Liza was a Holocaust survivor whose resilience and vibrant spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Liza was a woman of great strength, both physically and mentally. Her positive attitude powered her world, influencing everyone she encountered. She had a deep sense of style, carrying with her the fashion and flair she experienced during her years in Paris.

After immigrating to the United States and arriving in New York, Liza met and married Ben Nelson, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. They raised two daughters, Sandi Wood and Sheri Powell, the latter of whom was born after the family moved to Los Angeles. Liza's life in Los Angeles began in the Fairfax area before moving to West LA. During this time, Liza worked for family friend Leo David in the office of his construction business. When the building industry took a downturn, she shifted to Leo's Stereo, running the office for 30 stores. Though she was offered a partnership, she declined, believing that factory car radios with the news and weather were sufficient. Little did she know this would lead her to a remarkable 30-year career as a sales analyst.

After the stereo business closed, Liza continued working for Leo in real estate and construction, managing his offices for another 10 years. Upon retiring, she and Ben moved to the San Fernando Valley to be closer to their grandchildren. Even in retirement, Liza remained active, playing bingo at the senior center and assisting her daughter Sheri and son-in-law Michael Powell in their business management.

Liza was known for her boldness and no-nonsense attitude. She would not tolerate vulgar language and would not hesitate to speak her mind, especially when it came to her husband Ben or son-in-law Michael. Her strong-willed nature meant she was never afraid to assert herself. She could always be counted on to tell it like it was.

Family was everything to Liza. She cherished big family dinners, often insisting that the more people, the better. Backyard BBQs were a highlight, and though her daughter Sheri eventually took over hosting family meals, Liza was always willing to help, even if it meant working through swollen fingers. When her daughter Sheri became engaged, Liza insisted that the wedding venue be nothing short of gorgeous, complete with magnificent chandeliers and fresh flowers on every table. Liza had an impeccable sense of style, often doing her hair every Friday and ensuring her nails were done every few weeks, even until the very end.

Outside of her family and career, Liza enjoyed a full life of fun and adventure. She played mah jongg, visited casinos in Las Vegas and Palm Desert, and loved dining out with friends. An avid traveler, she also enjoyed attending concerts and stand-up comedy shows. Her quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and zest for life brought joy to all who crossed her path.

Liza spent her later years in Palm Desert, where she was deeply involved in the Café Europa program at Jewish Family Services, connecting with fellow seniors and Holocaust survivors. She was a woman of great kindness, warmth, and strength, and her impact on her community will be greatly missed.

Liza is survived by her daughters, Sandi Wood and Sheri Powell (and her husband, Michael Powell); her grandchildren, David Powell (and his wife, Kat Foyle, and their children, Summer and Logan Foyle) and Ilene Tatro (and her husband, Michael Tatro, and their daughter, Audrey Tatro); her sister, Dora Furst; and Dora’s children (Sheryl, Elsie, and Ronnie).

Liza’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will always be remembered for her incredible resilience, her unwavering love of life, and her ability to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Funeral Details:

The funeral will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Mt. Sinai Memorial Park, located at 5950 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068.

Tribute Donations:

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jewish Family Services of the Desert:

Jewish Family Services of the Desert490 S. Farrell Drive, C208Palm Springs, CA 92262Phone: 760-325-4088, ext. 107www.jfsdesert.orgAttention: Cheryl Scarlett, “Let’s Do Lunch Program by Julie Hirsh”

Liza's Story:

Liza's story of her immigration to America was featured in a documentary series. Her 24-minute segment can be viewed here: Liza's Story.