Nelson Rufus Gottier

Nelson Rufus Gottier
Nelson Rufus Gottier, 98, of Tolland, formerly of Vernon, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025.
Born on June 2, 1927, in Rockville, CT, Nelson was the beloved son of the late John and Edna (Ludwig) Gottier and had a wonderful life from the beginning.
A graduate of Rockville High School, he went on to attend Hillyer College before serving with the Connecticut Air National Guard from 1949 to 1952.
In 1960, Nelson co-founded Gottier Fuel Company with his brother Warren, building a successful family business rooted in trust, service, and integrity. He remained active in the company until his retirement in 1996.
Nelson shared 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Karin (Prippernau) Gottier, whom he met when she was in charge of running a ski fashion show. Together, they often traveled in their Winnebago and enjoyed time in Florida and Europe, especially Germany and Switzerland.
He was a devoted father and father-in-law to his loving daughter, Brenna Fastiggi, and her husband Tony, as well as a proud grandfather to his treasured granddaughter Addison Fastiggi his "little sweetheart," who brought him endless joy.
A dedicated member of his community, Nelson served on the Board of Directors of the People's Savings Bank, as a Trustee of the Rockville Public Library, and as Treasurer of the Hartford Saengerbund. His commitment to civic service was matched by his generosity, kindness, and honesty.
An avid golfer, Nelson was a longtime member of Ellington Ridge Country Club, where he formed many cherished friendships. He especially enjoyed the yearly golf trips to the Polish Vermont Open as well as many Florida golf outings with "The Guys."
Nelson was also a passionate skier and a member of the Rockville Ski Club. He traveled to the slopes of Colorado, Vermont, and Quebec to enjoy the sport he loved. In warmer months, he found joy at the beach, especially during visits to Block Island and Misquamicut.
At age 17, Nelson courageously battled polio. In gratitude for the support he received, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the March of Dimes at www.marchofdimes.org , whose work was instrumental in his recovery.
In addition to Karin, Brenna, Tony and Addison, Nelson is survived by his brother Warren Gottier and his wife Margaret, along with many loving nieces and nephews. Special gratitude is extended to Eric and Jason Gottier and Terry Mangold. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Nancy Murphy and her husband John Murphy, and his sister-in-law Carol L. Gottier.
The family expresses appreciation to all who supported Nelson in his later years with kindness, care, and friendship just as he treated others in his lifetime.
All are welcome to join his family for calling hours at the Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, 551 Talcottville Road, Vernon, CT 06066, on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. Funeral services will be at the funeral home on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Ellington Center Cemetery, 95 Maple St. in Ellington.