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Lon Edward Nelson
Lon Nelson Obituary
Lon Edward Nelson, age 89, of Green Valley, Arizona, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Born August 18, 1935, in Newton, Kansas, Lon grew up in Burlington, the son of Melba and Melbourne Nelson, a longtime English teacher there. A graduate of Kansas State University, Lon moved to New Mexico and built a long and successful career as a Real Estate Appraiser. He went on to serve as president of both his SRPA and MAI regional chapters, respected by colleagues for his professionalism and precision.
Lon was known for his quirky sense of humor, his ability to listen, and his impeccable attention to detail. A lover of books, classical compositions, and folk music, he embraced the simple life rather than the glitz and bustle of big cities.
A true "road warrior," Lon delighted in driving for hours across open highways, sometimes surprising family and friends by showing up at a special occasion after an overnight cross-country trip.
He was also an accomplished private pilot, instrument-rated, and the proud owner of several airplanes, his favorite a red-and-white 1977 Cessna Cardinal RG. A lifelong running enthusiast, Lon completed five marathons and countless 10Ks.
Lon was preceded in death by his parents, Melba M. Nelson and Melbourne E. Nelson, and his sister, Jane Nelson Combs. He is survived by his loving children: Jamie Nelson (Saybrook, Ill.), Erika Nelson Langenhorst (married to Matthew Langenhorst of Fairview Heights, Ill.), and Kelly Nelson (married to Samantha Hoey Nelson of Hollywood, Calif.); and his three beloved granddaughters: Grace-Milo Nelson (11), Harper-Avery Nelson (7), and Emerson-Kristen Nelson (7), all of Hollywood, Calif.
Throughout his life, Lon called many places home: Burlington, Topeka, and Manhattan (KS); Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Las Cruces (NM); Las Vegas (NV); and finally Green Valley, AZ. With this in mind a celebration of his life may possibly be held virtually (email [email protected] if interested).
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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