William O. Nelson Jr.

William O'Donald Nelson, Jr., age 85, of Penllyn, passed away peacefully on the morning of November 17, 2024 in North Wales after battling a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of the late Edith (Karle) Nelson. William was born on August 20, 1939 in Ambler, PA to the late William O. Nelson, Sr. and Temperance Nelson. Bill was a graduate of Ambler High School class of 1957. Shortly after graduating, he enlisted in the US Army. While serving overseas in Germany, he met the love of his life, Edith Karle. They wed on July 6, 1963 at his family home in Ambler, PA. After his service, he went on to and graduated from the New York School of Music. In 1970, they welcomed their son Christopher into their home. Bill worked for William H. Rorer Pharmaceuticals in Fort Washington, PA from 1967 until his retirement in 1999. He enjoyed attending car shows, casino trips, and gardening. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillis and 76ers.
Bill is survived by his son Christopher W. Nelson (Jill), his sisters Frances Burgess (Nate), Georgeann Gaskins (Walter), and Joann Brunson, his brother Robert Nelson, his step grandson Brett Wingate (Lannie), and step great-grandson Yosiah Gabriel. In addition to his wife Edith, he was preceded in death by brothers George Nelson, Walter Nelson, and sisters Mary Jane Brooks, Gloria Nelson and Ethel Torres.
Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing from 9:00-11:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024 at the Emil J. Ciavarelli Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 951 E. Butler Pike, Ambler, PA. Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donation in Bill's memory can be sent to an animal rescue of one's choice or to American Legion Daniel W. Dowling Post #769, 351 W. Maple St., Ambler, PA 19002.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.ciavarellifuneralhomes.com.