Evan Thomas Nelson

Evan Nelson, age 36, of Wallingford, CT passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was the loving husband of Kelli Frusciante Nelson. Evan was born in Putnam, CT on May 3, 1989, the cherished son of John and Kerstin Nelson Phoenix.

From an early age Evan enjoyed fishing of all varieties and searching for his next flea market find. He was known as the "Cookie Monster" who could never say no to a chocolate chip cookie. His tough exterior revealed a sensitive and caring inside to all.

A proud US Army Veteran, he served from 2010-2012 in the 82nd Airborne Division, concluding his service as a proud member of the funeral honor guard. Following his military service, Evan graduated from CCSU, majoring in construction management and starting his career at O&G Industries.

Friends and family will always remember him for his incredible BBQ, kind heart and inability to not try at least one beer at any new brewery. Evan loved fishing, weightlifting, and hosting infamous Friendsgiving feasts. He had a way of making everyone in his life feel like gold - Evan was reliable, fiercely loyal, and made everyone feel like they belonged.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is also survived by his sisters Sara Church and Kori Phoenix, along with numerous friends that he cherished as family. Evan was predeceased by his maternal grandparents John and Shizuko Nelson and his paternal grandmother Darlene Phoenix.

We grieve the loss of an incredible human deeply and we carry forward his laughter, his loyalty, and the light he brought into our lives.

He will be missed beyond words and remembered with love always.

In honor of Evan's memory, the family asks that donations made to Collaborative Ependymoma Research Network (CERN) or that you go have a beer at your local brewery in his honor. Wallingford Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.