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Larry Nelson Obituary
October 18, 1941 – February 21, 2025
Larry A. Nelson, age 83, passed away on February 21, 2025, in Maryland. Born on October 18, 1941, in Pipestone, Minnesota, and raised in West Seattle, Washington, Larry lived a life defined by service, dedication, and deep family connections.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force, participating in operations in Turkey and at the Pentagon. Following his military service, he dedicated 47 years to the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, where he built lasting friendships and made significant contributions through his work.
Larry is survived by his loving spouse, Sandy; his children, Bryan (Kathleen), Linda, and John (Elizabeth); his grandchildren-Andrew (Emily), Victoria (Brad), Ashley (James), Justin (Elizabeth), Melissa (Nathanial), Jared, Jacob, Natalie, and Lindsay; and his great-grandchildren, Mylie, Aiden, Benjamin, Raelynn, Everly, and Nora. He was preceded in death by his son James and his parents, Edgar and Alice Nelson. He also leaves behind his siblings Carrol Anderson and Ron (Gail).
Beyond his professional achievements, Larry found joy in spending time with family and friends. He loved traveling in his fifth wheel alongside his wife and friends Doug and Nancy. He was also an active member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Odenton, Maryland.
A funeral service to honor Larry's life will be held on February 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Odenton, Maryland. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall.
Larry's legacy of service, warmth, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew him.
10 Entries
Peggy Stubbe
February 26, 2025
Larry was such a good person always helping wherever he could. He leaves a wonderful legacy of an honorable life lived. He and Sandy made the world a better place!
Jared Cullen
February 25, 2025
He was more than just a grandpa to me, he was a kind loving soul sent from heaven itself who´s vibrant happiness always radiated off of him no matter where he was. Even when he fell ill he would still make those around him smile and laugh. He will truly be missed and I hope that he is in a better place so he can continue spreading his joy
Marie Andersen
February 25, 2025
I am so sorry to hear this. My thoughts & prayers are with you, Sandy and with the family.
Marie Andersen
Al Rutherford
February 25, 2025
Larry will forever live in our memories. He gave me an opportunity to work at APL and I will be forever grateful. Thank you, Larry for everything.
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Bryan´s co-workers
February 25, 2025
Our deepest condolences to your entire family. God be with you all.
Douglas Ehlers
February 25, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Edward M Fleming II
February 25, 2025
So very sorry to hear of your dad' passing Linda. May God grant you and your family peace and comfort in knowing that he is in God's arms. Love and blessings my friend....Ed Fleming and family
Daniel Dosch Jr
February 25, 2025
Larry was the first person to give me a job at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. He believed in me and I will be forever grateful to him. Thank you Larry. It's been a pleasure knowing you.
Leann
February 24, 2025
Larry always had a smile to share and hugs to give. Praying for peace in knowing you will see him again.
Dave Glock
February 24, 2025
I was sad to hear about our loss of Larry. He was a good friend during the time we worked together at JHU/APL. I remember our work on Laboratory-wide enterprise communications including the FDDI Counter Ring which at the time was very leading edge technology. He was a good man and I found him to be a friendly and rational colleague. My sincere condolences to his family.
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