Nelson D. Wilson

Nelson D. Wilson, 72, went to be with Jesus on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. Born September 15th, 1953, in McVeytown, he was the son of the late Mabel (Goss) Wilson and Russell Wilson. Nelson is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Bonnie (Collins) Wilson, as well as their four children, Robert Collins and wife Penny of Pittsburgh, Samantha Kepner and husband Gregory of McVeytown, Christopher Wilson and wife Christina of Morrisdale and Amanda Kratzer and husband Anthony of Lewistown. In addition to his four children, Nelson is survived by his grandchildren: Abigail Fleming, Derrick Kepner, Kaitlin Whisler, Clarissa Kepner, Ezra Kratzer, Tad Wilson, and Tate Wilson as well as great-grandchildren, Noah, Nova, Violet, Sadie, and Bennington. Nelson is also survived by siblings Ray Wilson and wife Ilene, Faye Miller, Leon Wilson and wife Iris, and Roy Wilson and wife Donna. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six siblings, Korena Wilson, Loretta Strohecker (Wilson), Charles Wilson, Paul Wilson, Albert Wilson, and Howard Wilson. Nelson was a proud graduate of Penn Highlands, Rothrock Campus, in 1971. He will be remembered as a determined and hard-working man who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He devoted 32 years of service to Feeser's Food Distributors in Lewistown and then retired on September 30th, 2025, from CARS after 14 years of dedicated service. Nelson and his wife, Bonnie, attended Lewistown Missionary Church together. His faith held strong through all the hardships in his life and he rarely missed a Sunday in church. Even his disdain of reading didn't stop him from reading passages for church events, a true example of his humble devotion. Nelson lived life to the fullest and was affectionately known as "Pap" not only by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but also by countless others whom he welcomed into his heart like family. His greatest joy was sharing stories of his children's, grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's accomplishments - always beaming with pride. A true bargain-hunter, Nelson enjoyed finding great deals at yardsales, flea markets, grocery stores, and thrift stores. Although often, the items purchased were never for him, but for those around him making them feel his love through his joyous gift-giving. He loved listening to "real country music" like Conway Twitty, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson, and most importantly, George Jones. He enjoyed the outdoors, mainly hunting and fishing, being sure to pass that tradition onto his family. He also loved relaxing after a long day with his dogs nestled tight to his side. Nelson's favorite moments were always those spent with the people he loved. His legacy is one of love, faith, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family. A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday October 27, 2025 at New Life Church, 101 N Beech St, Burnham, PA 17009, with Pastors John Walters and Darvin Donahey officiating. There will be a time of visitation held at the church from 5:00 p.m. until time of service. Arrangements have been entrusted to King-Barr Funeral Home, 120 Logan Street, Lewistown. Memorial contributions in Nelson's memory can be offered to: Centre County Down Syndrome Society, 210 W Hamilton Ave, State College, PA 16801. Online condolences can be shared at www.kingbarrfuneralhome.com