Kevin Lee Nelson

Obituary for Kevin Lee Nelson

Kevin was born in Fresno, California on December 23, 1977.

Family

Kevin was born to Norman and Joann Nelson. He was the younger brother to Kenneth
Nelson. Growing up, his family enjoyed going to Fresno Falcon ice hockey games
together, exploring fun places while camping in their trailer, and many summers in
Minnesota on the Larson family farm while visiting with grandparents, aunts, uncles and
cousins. In 2008, Kevin married his soul mate and love of his life, Michelle. In 2014,
they became a family of 3 and welcomed their beautiful daughter, Gracie Lynn.

Hockey

Kevin discovered a love for ice hockey as a child going to Fresno Falcon games with his
family. He started playing hockey for the Fresno Jr Hockey Club in his formative years.
He played just long enough for the sport to take root in his heart and stay with him for
life. As an adult, he picked up the game again and returned to the ice at Gateway Ice
Center, where his passion only grew stronger. He made countless friends over the years
and was a teammate everyone was excited to have. He had a passion and love for
being on the ice, but Kev was just as excited to support and cheer for other players!

Work

A gifted mechanic both on the job and at home, Kevin could fix and do just about
anything. He used his gift and genius to work in the family business, Thermo King and
NvB Equipment, for 30 years. He worked alongside his dad and brother to expand their
successful business while employing people both locally and nationwide that became
both family and friends. He took pride in being a fair and generous leader for their
employees. He loved being a part of making this country Great Again!!

Love and Faith

Kevin never made just a small impact, when he chose to be a part of something, he
gave it everything he had.

Kevin was both a lover and freedom fighter. Kevin was proud to be an American. He
had a heart of gold. He was one of the founding directors of the Fresno County Gun
Owners, the local chapter of the California Rifle and Pistol Association (CRPA). He
proudly served in any capacity where he was needed, and made many friends who
believed in the importance of the rights of the American people.

Above all, Kevin loved his wife, Michelle and their daughter, Gracie Lynn. His family was
his greatest joy and his proudest accomplishment. He lived his life for his "girls";
everything he did was to provide for them, take care of them, make their needs, wants
and dreams come true. He wanted them to want for nothing.

Kevin's foundation of love and faith is what he held onto as he fought colon cancer. He
never waivered, he knew only one thing: death was not an option. He never showed his
suffering, he never complained about his hard days, he didn't want anyone to see his
struggle. Kevin fought with courage and strength, but this disease took him far too soon.
His legacy of hard work, devotion, and love will never be forgotten.

Kevin was loved by so many - family, friends, coworkers, neighbors and all who had
the privilege of knowing him. His presence was strong, his loyalty unwavering, and his
love fierce.

To say he will be missed is a true understatement.

Kevin Lee Nelson, 48, went into the arms of the Lord on February 10, 2026. Through his
love and faith in the Lord, he shall have everlasting life in Heaven.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Michelle; his daughter, Gracie; his parents, Norm and
Joann; his brother, Ken; his sister-in-law, Gina; his niece, Aria; and his nephew, Colby;
and his extended family, friends, his hockey family, coworkers, and all who had the
privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers please send donations payable to: CPRA at 29225 Revis Rd.
Coarsegold, CA 93614

Please join us as we honor the life of Kevin Nelson:

Belmont Country Club
8253 E. Belmont Ave
Fresno, CA 93737

March 14, 2026
1:00pm - 4:00pm

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Kevin Lee Nelson, please click here to visit our sympathy store.