Robert W. Nielsen

1927 - 2018

Robert W. Nielsen

March 31, 1927 - Sept. 4, 2018

MISHAWAKA, IN - Robert W. Nielsen, residing in Mishawaka, passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2018. He was 91 years old. He was born March 31, 1927 in Chicago, IL, son of Edward & Mabel (Winge) Nielsen. On August 14, 1948 in South Bend, Robert was united in marriage to Phyllis E. Hertel. They have enjoyed over 70 years of marriage together. Along with his wife Phyllis, he is survived by his three sons and one daughter, Andrew Nielsen (Elizabeth) of Osceola, Peter Nielsen of Walkerton, Gregory Nielsen (Diana) of Plymouth, and Cheryl Nellis (Steven) of Mishawaka; his eight grandchildren, Jason Nielsen, Fayette Flournoy (Matthew), Adam Nielsen, Andrea Nielsen, Sarah McCallum (Jim), Kaitlin Nielsen, Cortney Nellis, and Melanie Nellis; and his eight great-grandchildren, Graycie, Jossie, Daisy, Mieke, Bennett, Gavin, Hazlea, and Mia. Robert was a graduate of John Adams High School and then went to continue his education and graduate at Western Michigan College. He served three years in the Army during World War II. He worked for Associates, with whom he was an Auditor, Indiana Association of Credit Management where he was an Officer and Manager, V.P. and Controller of American Homes, as well as V.P. and Controller of Hass Wholesale Inc. He also belonged to Studebaker and Bendix Chorus, Elks Chorus, Zion UCC Church Choir, and Michiana Male Chorus totaling 50 years. Along with everything else that he accomplished, he also belonged to the Elks Club where he was a lifetime member, UCT where he served many offices, Zion UCC where he was a lifetime member as well and served on and chaired many boards and committees. Robert loved his family and life very much. He loved reading books and his music. He also loved trains and his personal train collection. He enjoyed going on vacation with his family. His favorite spot was sitting by the creek in Gatlinburg, TN. A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the D.A.V., 1620 E. 83rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240, or to Zion United Church of Christ, 715 E. Wayne Street, South Bend, IN 46617. Welsheimer Family Funeral Home assisted with arrangements. Family and friends may leave e-mail condolences at www.welsheimer.com.