Peter Patrick Nelson

Mr. Peter Patrick Nelson

Otisville, NY

Mr. Peter Patrick Nelson of Otisville, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Garnet Health Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was 91 years old.

Born on October 3, 1933, in the Bronx, NY, Peter was the eldest of five children born to the late Peter Nelson and Grace Hendry Nelson. His parents immigrated to the United States from Ireland and Scotland, and Peter carried their heritage with deep pride throughout his life.

Growing up in the South Bronx, Pete formed strong bonds with childhood friends-many of whom shared his Irish roots-and attended P.S. 65. It was there that his quick wit and charisma earned him the nickname "Spike" on the school's track team, and it's where his lifelong friendships were born. As Aunt Annie used to say, "Peter kissed the Blarney Stone"-he was known for his charm, easy laughter, and the gift of gab.

On February 20, 1954, Peter married the love of his life, Margaret "Peggy" Leonard. They shared a marriage full of love, family, and faith until her passing in 2007. Together, they raised five devoted children and built a life filled with purpose and community.

Peter began his career as a machinist and later became a respected tool and die maker. He spent four decades at Loral Electronics, where his natural leadership, compassion, and fairness left a lasting impact. He was known for saying, "If someone needs help, then help. If they need work, give them a chance." Among his many colleagues, he proudly met and worked with General Colin Powell.

Later in life, Peter and Peggy moved to Otisville to fulfill his dream of owning a horse farm. There, "For Pete's Sake Farm" was born, and his passion for community continued. He coached Little League, naming his team after the farm, and became an active member of Holy Name of Jesus R.C. Church, where he faithfully served as bookkeeper.

Peter is survived by his beloved children: Peggy Palermo and her husband Danny, Patricia Scialabba and her husband Lou, Peter Nelson and his wife Fran, Daniel Nelson and his wife Jodi, and Christine Cannizzaro and her husband Bruce. He is also survived by his cherished siblings, Rose De'Rito and Michael Nelson; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren-with two more great-grandchildren on the way-as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and members of the extended Nelson and Leonard families.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Peggy, of 53 years; and by his siblings Billy Nelson, Grace Lane, Huey Nelson, and William Nelson.

Peter will be remembered for his faith, integrity, quick humor, devotion to family, and his unwavering belief in giving others a chance.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the GRAY-PARKER FUNERAL HOME, INC. 100 East Main Street Port Jervis on Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 3:00pm - 8:00pm.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 with a 9:30am prayer at the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am at Holy Name R.C. Church, 45 Highland Ave., Otisville, NY 10963 with Rev. Michael Palazzo officiating.

Burial will be at Holy Name Of Jesus Cemetery, Otisville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity deeply meaningful to the Nelson family:

The Prodigal Center, 2323 Vance Street, Bronx, NY 10469 or online: https://www.paypal.com/webapps/shoppingcart?flowlogging_id=f227594a654a9&mfid=1754321067884_f227594a654a9#/checkout/openButton. The Prodigal Center is a mission-driven organization serving the South Bronx community by providing food, clothing, and support to those in need. Donations of nonperishable food, clothing, or monetary gifts are welcomed and greatly appreciated.

Funeral arrangements are by the GRAY-PARKER FUNERAL HOME, 100 E. Main St., Port Jervis. For additional information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family please visit www.grayparkerfuneralhome.com