William Fredrick Nelson

 William Fredrick George Nelson, of Gallatin, Tennessee, known to many as "Bill," passed away at Vanderbilt University Medical Center after an extensive illness on September 7, 2025, at the age of 81. His first love was his family and friends, and his second was a love of education. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Born on February 11, 1944, in Beloit, Wisconsin, Bill embodied a zest for life that inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.

After he graduated from Hononegah High School in Rockton, Illinois. He went on to further his academic achievements by obtaining his Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in education from the University of Wisconsin, equipping himself with the tools necessary to shape future generations. As a true advocate for knowledge and growth, Bill dedicated part of his life to teaching and coaching in Milwaukee. Later, Bill's passion for teaching was utilized in business, where he took the skills he learned as an educator and applied them to sales and marketing. His success in the business world led him to travel to all of the U.S, all of Canada, Mexico, and as far as China. Upon retiring to the Nashville area, he found himself using his education skills again, teaching English as a Second Language, including Shalom nonprofit organization. He enjoyed seeing the growth of each and every one of his students. His students affectionately referred to him as "Professor Bill," a title that spoke volumes about the respect and admiration he garnered. Bill was not only an exceptional teacher but also an enthusiastic coach, guiding young minds on the football field as he coached 8th-grade football. 

Those who knew Bill will remember his competitive spirit, gracious demeanor, and sharp wit. He possessed a tenacious and kind nature, consistently bringing joy and laughter to those around him. Not only was Bill an avid reader and intellectually curious individual, but he was also a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. In addition, as a founding member of Providence Church, Bill held a deep affection for his faith community, serving with unwavering dedication. His religious commitment complemented his love for family, as he navigated life as a husband, father, and grandfather, forming bonds that would last a lifetime.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Wilma Smith Nelson; his son, Eric (Brooke) Nelson; and his daughter, Lara (Lonnie) Soppeland. He delighted in the joyous presence of his grandchildren, Tori (Addia) Troyer, Elisabeth (Adam) Miranowski, Anna Nelson, Kyle Soppeland, Kolton Soppeland, and Kendall Soppeland. Additionally, he is remembered fondly by his sister-in-law, Christine Fuss Smith; his two brother-in-laws, Dennis (Jennifer) Smith, Myron Smith, and close family friend, Trisha Merchant, as well as their families, including many cherished nieces and nephews, including grand nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his birth parents, Robert George and Iris Osborne George Nelson, and his adoptive father, Wilford Nelson. He is also reunited with his adoptive siblings Carolyn (Ronald) Machula, Julie (Edward) Miller, Kent Nelson, his foster brother, David Thorson, and his wife, Virginia Thorson. In addition. his brother-in-law, Quentin Smith, and sister in law, Diane Hare Smith.

As we gather to honor the life of William Fredrick Nelson, we celebrate a remarkable individual whose spirit will forever live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the love he shared.

A memorial service in honor of Bill will be held at Providence Church at 2293 S Rutland Rd, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122, on October 10, with visitation at 10 AM, with the service to follow at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, a monetary donation can be made to the Providence Church building fund in honor of. For more information, visit https://prov.church/ministries/outreach/

Additionally, there will be another service to honor Bill's life for his Ohio friends and family at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton, Ohio, at 2551 55th St NE, Canton, OH 44721, on October 17, with visitation at 10 AM until service time at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, a monetary donation may be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran church in Canton, Ohio. More information about how to donate can be found at https://holytrinitycanton.org/, or the family requests you donate to your charity of choice.