McKenzie Nelson

MCKENZIE ELIANA NELSON

Cedar Rapids

McKenzie Eliana Nelson, 2, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2016, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City. Family and friends will gather from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, June 3, with a funeral service beginning at 11 a.m., at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids.

Survivors include her mother, Diamond Nelson; father, Christen Davis; grandfather, Marvin Davis; aunties, Jasmine and Parrish Nelson; and uncle, David Nelson, all of Chicago. Also surviving are a host of great-aunts, uncles and cousins.

McKenzie was born Dec. 31, 2013, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, weighing only 14 ounces at 22 weeks. Against all odds, she fought her way through multiple surgeries. During that time, the doctors and nurses in NICU became her extended family. Fast forward one year later and here you have this chunky baby literally bouncing away in her bouncer, smiling and talking to anyone who would listen. If you didn't know McKenzie, you quickly got to know her smile and sparkling personality.

In February 2014, McKenzie finally was able to come home. She truly was a miracle baby full of love and joy. You could always find her bouncing away watching either "Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Bitty" or "Family Feud." She really enjoyed when you would sing "Better With You" by Strawberry Shortcake. McKenzie enjoyed being outdoors and playing with her little cousins, Bella and London. She will be remembered for her strong-willed nature, bubbly personality and one-of-a-kind smile.

McKenzie will join her sister, McKyla; and grandmother, Tammy Nelson.

Please share your support and memories with McKenzie's family on her tribute wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries.