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Gary NELSON Obituary



NELSON, Gary C.
Born 5/25/43; passed away on 7/19/11 after a hard-fought battle against cancer. Survived by former wife Cheryl Douglas Nelson of Sacramento; son Jeff Nelson of Los Angeles; daughter Kristin Villacara of Roseville; grandchildren (Isabella Villacara, 8; Lily Villacara, 6); and beloved companion Colleen Brainard. Gary was a successful investment banker and consultant who started numerous companies, some of which he took public. Remembered well for his sense of humor and zest for life. Remembrances may be sent to the children's charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Aug. 7, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary NELSON

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Marc Bercoon

August 1, 2023

I still have yet to meet someone who can not only light up, but truly electrify, a room or dinner table the way Gary could. Regardless of whether Gary just met you or he knew you for years, Gary had the ability to connect with everyone and make you feel like you were life-long friends. It was not salesmenship. Gary truly enjoyed people and sharing laughs and experiences, and this shined through. I will forever miss my friend and cannot believe it has been 12 years. As sad as I am from his passing, remembering him brings back memories and great laughs.

Marc Bercoon

August 1, 2022

I think of my friend often. And even though not having him with us saddens me, he still brings a smile to my face remembering his sense of humor, positive attitude, the love he showed for his family and friends.

March 19, 2012

To the Nelson Family - I met Gary in 1997 and we instantly developed a great friendship. Gary was like a brother to me when we were together although distance kept us apart. His zest for life and his funny stories haev been repeated many times and always draw a laugh. I had not spoken to Gary in a while and just now learned of his passing. He loved his son and daughter very much and was crazy about the grandkids. He spoke of you all very often and always in with great pride and joy. I will miss my friend and the great times we shared as infrequently as they were. Sporty (as I called him) will b emissed by all he touched.

Marc Bercoon

Ryan Younger

October 11, 2011

Gary Nelson was the best business man I ever met. Gary had a great since of humor and always made you laugh. Gary showed concern for me as a friend even though I was a client and he didn't have too, when times were tough trying to get our business started. Gary, you are missed greatly! I wish you were here today because I know this business would be different with you here. I hope that we can re-unite again soon and tell jokes and laugh one day. God Bless and God Speed Gary!

Scott (Scottie) Sellers

August 23, 2011

Gary was a close friend, it saddened me that he kept his worsening condition from me but I understood why, it was his way to not cause burden. We had such fun at Selby, the pool, the dinners, the wine, the conversations, and best of all, the company. It’s been almost four years since he was my best man at my wedding. We had a blast that night and his speech was truly a piece of work, but that’s Gary for you! As always buddy, there’s a place at the table for you and a hug when you head home.

Christine Begovich

August 15, 2011

There will never be another one like Gary C. Nelson, no doubt! I worked with Gary for the past 6 years. He will be truly missed. Much love to Kristen, Jeff and Colleen.

frank eastman

August 14, 2011

Gary was a great person. He and I worked for Tidewater Oil and then Phillips 66 for many years. After those days we would run across each other and visit. May he rest in peace. Frank

Mike Mannix

August 14, 2011

There are a few times in life when you meet someone and right away there is a close bond with that person. Gary Nelson was one of those people. He always listened compassionately and responded with great interest. He was never down, even though he was taking chemo, his spirits were always upbeat. He was bright and compassionate and will be missed. I will always have fond thoughts when thinking of him.

Tom Larson

August 12, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family. He was a great guy and always lightened up the mood. He would always listened and give great advice. He will be truly missed.

Dan Proctor

August 9, 2011

My old friend whom I have known from grammer school, to the tower theater, to playing trumpet in our band in the basement of his parents home near landpark. The lone Ranger and Tonto , a great life long friend. My best to the family as he will be missed.

Jeff Miller

August 9, 2011

My prayers go out to Gary. Gary became a good freind and business partner for a number of years. Those years were the tough ones in his life and through them he was upbeat and positive. He always kept a real dedication and love for all his family and thought the very best of them. I miss our interaction........

Chick Ciccarelli

August 8, 2011

What a loss. Gary was one of the brightest, funniest people I have ever met. I've known Gary for well over 12 years. I designed his website and had other business projects with him throughout the years. He will be truly missed. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.

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