Garry J. Nelson

Garry Julian Nelson was born March 3, 1938, in Fergus Falls, MN to Julian Willard Nelson and Inez Birdelle Clarice Nelson (nee Moen). Due to his father’s employment with the railroad, they moved quite a bit, ultimately settling in Devils Lake, ND. Soon after, he proudly became big brother to Paul, Fred, and Jon — a role he carried with warmth, humor, and a hint of mischief for the rest of his days.

In his youth academic excellence was of extreme importance (98% on a test was not sufficient) as was sports. His love was football, but at some point, realized he lacked the size needed to compete. So, his interest turned to basketball and baseball. He never lost his passion for sports and was an avid Chicago Bears and Cubs fan.

His life travels lead him to study at several academic institutions including Concordia University, Iowa State and University of North Dakota, with interests in Theology, Science and Philosophy and ultimately earned a BA in Economics from Roosevelt University and his MBA from University of Chicago (executive program).

Garry was a veteran of the US Air Force and was stationed in New York in 1961 as a weatherman. That sense of curiosity about the world — and the skies above it — shaped the rest of his life. Astronomy and space exploration were topics of interest to him.

Back on earth, he also had a great love for the outdoors, flora, and fauna. He kept an exceptional garden every place he resided and studied as a naturalist and dedicated his time and talents as a volunteer at the Morton Arboretum. Garry went on to build a highly successful career in commercial real estate which spanned decades, later founding his own consulting business. His job offered him the opportunity to travel, but more importantly he gained life-long friendships with colleagues along the way.

Garry’s achievements were no match for his ability to capture the hearts and friendships of those who met him. It was clear he was a man of great curiosity, creativity, and humor. Garry liked giving back to his community and was a member of the Naperville Chorus and a volunteer with the Exchange Club of Naperville. He was a lover of books and ideas and found joy in music of every kind — from classical and opera to the twang of country legends. He was known to break into song whenever inspiration struck, often delighting those around him. And for many years was a regular presence at the local piano bar.

He was also a devoted father to three daughters (Jennifer, Laura, and Melissa) who drew inspiration from his wisdom, wit, and warmth. Later in life, he found lasting love and companionship with his beloved Donna “Belle”, with whom he shared over 30 wonderful years in Naperville.

He never lost his playful, trickster spirit, especially around the “young rascals” who adored him, including his eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren (with one more on the way).

Those who knew Garry will remember his name was spelled with two Rs, he was kind, he was curious, and he had an ability to make any room brighter just by being in it. Garry was a loyal companion, good listener, and a gentle soul. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched — family, friends, and countless others who had the privilege of crossing his path.

The family is honoring his wishes and not hosting a public service, but donations in Garry’s memory can be made to the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rt 53, Lisle, IL 60532.

A slideshow for Garry will be up in the near future.