Alan E. Nelson

Franklin – Alan E. Nelson, 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence in Worcester.

Born in Boston, Alan was the beloved son of the late Edward and Lilly (Nordstrom) Nelson Gustafson and was raised in Braintree. He graduated from Braintree High School and went on to earn an associate degree in engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology. Alan proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy Reserves.

As a gifted and innovative engineer, Alan’s career was marked by creativity, curiosity, and dedication. He held several patents and was admired for his ingenuity and problem-solving skills. His professional journey began at Norton Company and later included positions with Whiten Pool Co., Larad Equipment Corp., and Riverdale Mills in Northbridge. Among his many accomplishments, Alan contributed to the design of the White House swimming pool as well as the pools used in the 1984 Summer Olympics—achievements that reflected both his technical mastery and his attention to detail.

Outside of his professional life, Alan was a lifelong outdoorsman who found joy and peace in the forests and mountains of New England. He was also a passionate “gearhead,” having built his first hot rod while still in high school, and throughout his life, he never lost his fascination with mechanics and design. Known as the ultimate handyman, there was no project too challenging for him—whether it involved electrical work, plumbing, or machinery, Alan could always find a solution.

Above all, Alan was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steady presence and will be dearly missed by his friends, family and colleagues.

Alan is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Janet (Russell) Nelson; his daughter, Deborah Farber and her husband, Paul of Whitinsville; his sons, James Nelson and his wife, Lauri, of Coventry, RI; Michael Pimental of Whitinsville; and Edward Pimental of Georgia; his sister, Janet Troy and her husband, Paul, of Kingston; his brother, Paul Nelson and his wife, Paula, of Florida; his cherished grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather for memorial calling hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m., on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Interment will be private at a later date at Knollwood Memorial Park 321 High Street, Canton.