Robert Nelson

Robert Curtis Nelson, 74, passed away at home on November 15, 2018. Bob, a lifelong resident of Waterville, was born in Wenatchee, Washington on October 25, 1944 to Oliver and Mildred (Hann) Nelson. He graduated from Waterville High School and attended Wenatchee Valley College and Washington State University. He served in the Washington National Guard, while working with his father on the family farm. Until his retirement, Bob was a partner in Nelson Farms north of Waterville. He enjoyed the challenge that farming provided and spent many hours using his mechanical skills. Bob was a gentle, loving husband, father, son and brother. His family always came first, and he was proud of each one of them. When his sons learned to ski, he learned to ski. He spent many a happy weekend at the Badger Mountain Ski Hill skiing with his sons or volunteering. He enjoyed woodworking in his shop, making toys for the grandchildren. In the 60’s, Bob’s passion for flying lead him to become a pilot, often flying to Wenatchee to take his future wife, Chris, on a date or flying to eastern Washington to pick up farm equipment parts. He married Pamela Christina Hodges on September 23, 1972 in Wenatchee, WA. His love of the land carried over into growing a large vegetable garden and working in the yard at home and at church. Bob, a lifelong Christian, was a member of the Federated Church of Waterville. His faith and strength carried him through his battle with ALS. He loved music, played several instruments and sang in the church choir. He was passionate about attending October Fest in Portland, Oregon every year, enjoying the many music venues. Bob is survived by his wife, Pamela Christina Nelson; his son Ross (Ericka) Nelson, granddaughters Gracie and Amelia, of Portland, OR; son, James (Starla) Nelson, granddaughters Sage and Sophia, and grandson, Bowen of Puyallup, WA; sister, Kathryn (Dale) Gormley of Waterville, WA and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Mildred Nelson. His family feels blessed to have had this gentle, loving, quiet man in their lives. He will be greatly missed, but he leaves a legacy of love. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Federated Church in Waterville on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Federated Church, Waterville Ambulance or the ALS Association. The family wishes to thank Dr. Joseph Tomabene, Derek Whitehall, PA and Confluence Health Hospice for their care.

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Robert Nelson

October 25, 1944 - November 15, 2018