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BORN
1948
DIED
2022
Tom Nelson Obituary
August 6, 1948 - May 17, 2022
Carmichael, California - Tom Nelson passed away in Sacramento on May 17, 2022 at the age of 73 shortly after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
Tom is survived by his wife Linda, son Matthew (Joanna) Nelson, daughter Emily Nelson, grandchildren Ariana and Alexa, sister Darby Kremers, and brother Rick (Renee) Nelson. He is predeceased by his mother Barbara Nelson, father Robert Nelson, and sister Karen Nelson.
Tom was born in Great Falls, MT. He graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a degree in Pharmacy in 1971 and went on to become the owner of Pucci's Pharmacy in midtown Sacramento for 37 years. He was well known for his sense of humor, his booming voice that greeted everyone who came through the door, and always going the extra mile for his customers and employees.
His love of retail pharmacy and serving the community was unwavering. He dedicated his time to numerous professional causes, including serving as President of the California State Board of Pharmacy under Governor Wilson and was an active member of the Cardinal Health Regional and National Retail Advisory Boards for many years. Even in retirement, Tom was quick to volunteer his services to distribute COVID vaccines to local nursing homes and drive-through clinics during the pandemic.
Tom, lovingly called "Pa" by his granddaughters, was devoted to his family. He enjoyed fly-fishing in Colorado, crabbing in Bodega Bay, and exploring National Parks all over the US with his wife and family.
Tom also valued his church community at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. He served on the finance council for over ten years, regularly volunteered as a lector for weekend mass, and was a friend to many parishioners.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him.
A funeral mass is scheduled for 10:00am on Saturday, June 4 at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Carmichael, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Parks Foundation or OLA Parish.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Tom Nelson
Denis and Dona Zilaff
May 23, 2024
We have fond memories of Tom at Pucci´s Pharmacy.
He was helpful beyond words and always so friendly. We miss him dearly.
Dona Zilaff
May 27, 2023
Our family befriended Tom during our many visits to Pucci´s Pharmacy. Tom was always so helpful with medications for our daughter who was often sick during her childhood. He often stopped on his way home from work to drop off a prescription. We all miss him.
Sincerely, Denis and Dona Zilaff
Sally and Rob
June 26, 2022
We always loved to see Tom when we went to Pucci's! We could count on him greeting us by name - with a beaming smile - even if we hadn't been in for some time. He is missed!
HH GROUP, your friendly neighbors
June 3, 2022
Our sincerest deepest condolences to the entire Nelson family.
Harriet Schloemer
May 31, 2022
My deepest condolences to the Wilson family. So sorry I didn´t get to know you (my neighbor) sooner. We will miss your presence at our HH gatherings.
Clint Hopkins & Joel Hockman
May 31, 2022
Tom was a mentor and true friend. We will miss seeing him however, we know his presence will be with us forever.
Craig McCulloch
May 31, 2022
My condolences to the Nelson family and his many friends.
Mary Lou & Charley Wright
May 29, 2022
Mary Lou & Charley Wright
May 29, 2022
Mary Lou & Charley Wright
May 29, 2022
Bless your family Tom, as they gather memories to celebrate your life. I learned a lot from you: humor, compassion & customer service - some of your sparkling qualities in life. Journey on.
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