Robert D. Nelson

Robert "Bob" D. Nelson, 95, of Rockford, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2023, in Rockford. Born April 5, 1928, in Blue Island, IL., the son of Alvin and Mary (Groce) Nelson. After moving to Chicago, he was a Harper High School graduate and also graduated from Wilson Junior College. Bob enjoyed playing the drums and formed a "big band" in high school. His big band played at U.S.O. Canteens, proms, and school dances during the WW II. They went on to play at ballrooms, colleges, and country clubs. Bob enlisted in the Army National Guard on February 19, 1950. Years later to the Army Engineer's Reserve as Master Sgt. Later returned to Guard as 1st Sgt. He met Marie Blum and married her on June 5, 1965, having been married 58 years. Robert worked for Amphenol, Automatic Electric, and W.F. & John Barnes as project engineer / machine designer, and was manager of Kelso-Burnett Control Panel Division.
Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He was the past president of Rock Valley Anglers and four other clubs. He was an active member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Robert Carlson Legion Post 1207, and past junior vise commander. Bob always wanted to help veterans; he distributed poppies for years with top dollar donations.
He is survived by his wife, Marie; brother, Richard; daughters, Kristine (Bob) Pabian of Key West, FL., and Boone, N.C., Karla (Mike) Lombardo of Loves Park, and Karolyn (Ted) Roell of Rockford; son, Kurt (Alma) Nelson Fernandez of Mesa, AZ.; grandchildren, Nolan, Josh, A.J., Max, Kurt Jr., and Sean; and 4 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents.
Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am on Monday, November 20, 2023, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St., Rockford, with Rev. Scott Stolberg officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 am to 10:15 am prior to the service in the church. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Our Saviors Lutheran Church or American Legion Post #1207. Arrangements by Olson Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd. To share a memory or send an online condolence, visit olsonfh.com.