Robert Gustav Nelson's Obituary
Robert Gustav Nelson, age 81 of Alliance, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, November 5, 2014 at Aultman Hospital. He was born on November 27, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois. Preceded in death by his parents, Gustav Lars Nelson and Hazel Stavlund Nelson-Salken, whom both came from Norway. He was a United States Air Force veteran serving during the Korean Conflict. And while serving, he was a member of The first "Tops in Blue", which showcased talents at air bases around the world: most notably performing on the Arthur Godfrey and Ed Sullivan Show with his trio "The Harmonica Riffs". Moving to Alliance in 1955 he worked several years as a journeyman plumber, then as a structural draftsman until retiring in 1999. He enjoyed sports, each season always rooting for his Chicago Bears. In his earlier years he took up weightlifting and bodybuilding which earned him the title of Mr. Alliance. Through the years his skills in carpentry and structural fabrication were the cornerstones of his achievements. Always proving, ingenuity and hard work, can pay off. In his final years, he was content sitting outside enjoying the wooded view that surrounded their home. Survived by his loving and supportive wife of nearly 60 years, Marlene (Pisoni) Nelson of the residence; five children, Robert (Joni) Nelson of Louisville, Jerry (Christine) Nelson of Marlboro, Lori (Pete) Pagnucco of Hermosa Beach, Calif., John Nelson of Salem and Steve (Stacy) Nelson of Alliance; six grandchildren, Casey (Richard) Halter, Kirsten (James) Garvey, Molly, Rachel, Zach and Landon; three great grandchildren, Pierce, Conner and Evan; two sisters, Sandra Herman of Pinckney, Mich. and Linda (Jim) Strnad of Groveland, Ill. There will be no calling hours or public service. A private family service will be conducted. A special thank you to all who gave their love and support. Arrangements are by Sharer-Stirling-Skivolocke Funeral Home.
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