Alfred Derk Nelsen

Alfred Derk Nelsen, 88, of Chester, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on January 30, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 2, 1937, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, he was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Winifred Nelsen, and his sister Winnie Musbeck. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Joan Nelsen; his sister, Carol; his brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Karen Nelsen; his children, Eric and Richelle Nelsen, Brian and Yan Nelsen, and Carolyn and Gil Villanueva; and his beloved grandchildren, Grant Villanueva and Camden Villanueva.

Alfred graduated from Bentley University and built a dedicated career as an accountant and business owner, guided by a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to providing for his family.

“Brud”, a nickname from his siblings, was known for his quick wit, subtle humor, and the strength and discipline he carried from his years as a proud United States Marine, a role that shaped his character for a lifetime. He deeply valued time with his family; gatherings filled with laughter and shared memories, including fishing on family vacations to New Hampshire, sailing along the beautiful coastlines of Connecticut, Long Island, and Block Island, and later boating on Lake Monticello with his family and friends in Virginia.

When his children were young, he and his wife, Joan, were devoted, enthusiastic, and always present on the sidelines and in the stands of their athletic events, especially their basketball games. That same loving support continued as Alfred and Joan became grandparents to Grant and Camden and cherished every opportunity to watch and celebrate their grandchildren’s athletic, artistic, and academic achievements.

Al was also a passionate sports fan, faithfully cheering for the New York Giants, New York Yankees, and UConn basketball. Golf held a special place in his heart and in his routine. It was his time to relax, reflect, vent about the world, and share plenty of laughs with his friends.

A determined man and a man of his word, if Alfred said something, he meant it. He was honest, sometimes blunt, and always direct, but you never had to guess where you stood with him. Beneath that strong exterior was a tender heart that did not always show itself, but when it did, it was deeply felt and meaningful to those closest to him. He valued integrity, despised insincerity, and believed strongly in doing what was right for himself and his family. A fighter by nature, he worked hard for everything he believed in and carried himself with pride.

Alfred leaves behind a legacy of strength, integrity, and deep devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his resilience, his humor, and the powerful presence he carried throughout his life.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at Masonicare at Chester Village, 317 W. Main Street, Chester, CT.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to:
Shut The Door Farm Rescue - shutthedoorfarmrescue.org
or
Paws Assisting Veterans - www.paveusa.org