Jack L. Nelson

PORTAGE – Jack L. Nelson, age 82, of Portage, passed away on Monday, November 7, 2011 at his home.

Jack was born on January 8, 1929 in Chippewa Falls, the son of Lloyd Douglas and Gertrude Marie (Ziehr) Nelson.  He served his country with the U. S. Navy.  Jack had been a bus driver for the Beloit Transit System for many years.  He was interested in flying and aircraft, and had his pilot’s license for 30 years.  Jack was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, and was involved with Riverwood  Apartments.  He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as he attended their sporting events, and going to visit family in Tomahawk, Wisconsin.  Jack loved fishing, camping and traveling in his motor home throughout his life.

He is survived by his children, Teresa (Butch) Armstrong, Tomahawk, Bruce (Cathy) Nelson, Oregon, WI, Mike (Dawn) Nelson, Portage, and Kevin Nelson, New London;  his grandchildren, William Armstrong, Brandie (Jeff) Fago, Drew Nelson, Alexa Nelson, Izaac Nelson, Elias Nelson, Jacob Nelson, Riley Nelson, Jack Nelson, Hilary Nelson, Garrett Nelson, and Logan Nelson;  two great-grandchildren, Bennett Fago and Sydney Fago;  his sister, Betty Abraham, Manawa, WI;  his special friend, Colleen Clark;  other near relatives and many friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Carol June, his second wife, Geraldine, and his siblings, Robert, Donna and Roger. 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11, 2011 at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with the Rev. Dick Inglett officiating.  Private family burial will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens in Rockford, Illinois on Saturday.  Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m. on Friday at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage.

A memorial fund has been established in his name.