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Kent Charles "Oz" Nelson
Kent Charles "Oz" Nelson
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Kent Nelson Obituary
Kent Charles "Oz" Nelson was also a dedicated leader with the Carter Center, United Way and other philanthropic organizations in Atlanta.
Nelson is credited with transforming UPS into a global logistic powerhouse by championing innovative technologies, including real-time package tracking and handheld scanning devices that its drivers still use today. Nelson moved UPS headquarters to Atlanta in 1991.
Rivaling his business acumen was his commitment to giving back to the community, said Douglas Nelson, a longtime friend and the former longtime CEO of the nonprofit Annie Casey Foundation.
"He was a pretty extraordinary man, a great man who was too modest to let anybody recognize him as such," said Nelson, who is no relation to Oz Nelson. "He had a leadership capability both in the business and in the philanthropic sectors that was second to none in my life."
He helped build and later chaired the board of the Casey Foundation, which is dedicated to helping the underserved, and he took leadership roles for well-known nonprofits including the CDC Foundation, the United Way of America and the Carter Center.
At the Carter Center, he stepped in as chairman of the Board of Trustees after President Jimmy Carter stepped away from the position.
Read more about Oz Nelson on ajc.com
5 Entries
Tom Frieden
April 14, 2023
I treasure my memories of interactions with Oz during my time as Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He was a consummate manager, and a kind and gentle human being. He delivered for the communities he served and for the world. I miss him.
Richard Edwards
April 13, 2023
It was sad that my wife, Mary, and Oz passed the same week. Oz was the best man at our wedding some 66 years ago. I saw him last October and he was the same kind and gracious man he was those many years ago.
Sue Rusche
April 13, 2023
Our deepest condolences to Ann and Oz's family. We have lost a giant and will never be able to thank him enough for all he and Ann did for National Families in Action. As our senior advisor, Oz guided our Board of Directors, especially our chairman and president/CEO. Ann and Oz supported us financially through our effort to educate and prevent drug use among adolescents and young adults. We are honored to have had his support and already miss him fiercely.
Sue Rusche, former president/CEO
Dan Van Treese
April 11, 2023
So glad I got to meet Oz. Admired him greatly. A real gentleman & loyal Brother of SPE. RIP. Prayers for the family. Dan Van Treese
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Winston E. Smith
April 11, 2023
Condolences to the family of Oz Nelson. He was a giant of a man that helped steer UPS into a transformative and great place to work. RIEP.
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