Ronald (Ron) Kent Nelson

Marina, CA - Ron Nelson passed away unexpectedly at his home in Marina, California in August 2023 at the age of 66.

Ron was born and raised in Salem, Oregon, the third child of Joseph and Alberta Nelson. He attended North Salem High School and earned his Bachelor's degree at Western Oregon University, and his Master's in German at Portland State University.

Ron started his teaching career in Salem, before accepting the position of Instructor of German at the prestigious Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center in Monterey, California in October 1983. After the Fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Ron moved to the Faculty Development Division where he was a Faculty Development Specialist. He was later promoted to Assistant Dean in the UEL School (Undergraduate School of European and Latin American Languages), where he received many accolades for his contributions to the Department of Defense and in the service of his country, including the Commander's Award for Civilian Service. Ron remained at DLI for 32 years, until his retirement in October 2015.

Ron was an excellent professor and was beloved by students and colleagues alike. He was a consummate professional and a great team player. He was known for his delightful sense of humor - especially his Midwestern "Sven and Ole" jokes.

Ron enjoyed travel, making numerous trips to Germany over the years, and after retirement, he traveled with friends to Hawaii. He also made annual trips to Oregon to visit family and friends. Ron remained active in his last years, attending "Stammtisch" meetings with former German Department colleagues, United Nations group work, attending Retiree meetings, Happy Hours, and just reading at his home in Marina, CA.

Ron is survived by his two sisters, Karen Keller and Laurie Frey. He was a fantastic uncle to his nephew and five nieces. Ron was pre-deceased by his parents, Joseph and Alberta Nelson, and his younger brother, Tom Nelson.

A gathering of friends, family and colleagues was held in Monterey, CA where Ron was remembered for his kindness, intellect and sense of humor. We will miss you Ron!