Harry A. Nelson

1938 - 2017

NEW IPSWICH -- Harry A. Nelson, 78, a lifelong resident of New Ipswich, died Wednesday, January 18, 2017 after a sudden illness.

He was born in New Ipswich on November 12, 1938 to Arthur and Esther (Paajanen) Nelson. He was a 1956 graduate of the Appleton Academy and went on to attend the New Hampshire Voc-Tech School in Manchester.

He was a member of the United States National Guard from 1960-1962, and was called to active duty during that time.

He married Geraldine E. Girard in a ceremony in Westminster, Massachusetts on November 10, 1962. They recently celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary.

He worked for General Electric Company as a Draftsman and Tool Designer, retiring after more than 30 years. After retirement he continued as a consultant for almost 15 years longer.

He was a devoted family man who loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He was extremely fond of animals and dearly loved his dog Camilla. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed cutting and splitting wood, hiking, camping and taking daily drives. He was always working a project around the house and yard, which he took great pride in. Harry and his wife, Geri, were blessed to have had the opportunity to travel to many different countries. As a lifelong resident of New Ipswich, he practically knew everyone in town. Wherever he went he greeted people with a simple smile and wave. Harry was a humble man who enjoyed helping those in need and volunteering at his church.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Geraldine E. Nelson, of New Ipswich and his sons; Todd Nelson and his wife, Diane, of Las Flores, California and Adam Nelson and his significant other, Susanne Bahr, of Nantucket, Massachusetts; his grandchildren Jenna Nelson and TJ Nelson and extended family Bradley Poff II, Angie Platt, Laura Poff and Katie Poff as well as his beloved Clumber Spaniel Camilla.

Services for Mr. Nelson were held on Monday. Burial will take place in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mr. Nelson's name to the New Ipswich Congregational Church Building Fund, 150 Main Street, New Ipswich, NH 03071 or to the Monadnock Humane Society, 101 W Swanzey Rd. Swanzey, NH 03446.

To share photographs, memories or condolences with Mr. Nelson's family, please visit his permanent online memorial at www.cournoyerfh.com