David Nelson

DAVID NELSON

WOOD RIVER — David Nelson, 85, passed away at 10:33 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, at his residence with his loving family by his side.

He was born on Jan. 19, 1933, in Wood River, the son of the late Benjaman Harrison and Blanche V. (Coffman) Nelson. He married Edith (Schenk) Hand on July 29, 1960, in Alton, and she preceded him in death on July 2, 2017.

Survivors include four daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Ted Sperry of Stuart, Florida, Carolyn and Jerry Robertson of Stuart, Florida, Sandy and Dennis Shaw of Rosewood Heights, Betty and Don Secor of Bethalto; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Bob and Karri Hand of Hollywood Beach, Florida, Jimmy and Tonya Glisson of Old Town, Florida, Jeff Glisson of Brooksville, Florida; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Ruth Ann Gray of East Alton; a brother and sister-in-law, Bobby and Charlotte Nelson of Wood River; and many other extended family and friends.

David was employed by the Laborer's Local #338 for over 35 years and retired as a foreman at Shell Oil Company. He formerly attended Bible Baptist Church in Cottage Hills. He loved his dogs, Jack and Jill. He loved to farm and raise his bulls and cows. He enjoyed playing golf, dancing, bowling, hunting, and fishing.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Kathy Godfirnon; a son, Ralph James Hand II; two grandchildren, Scott Gibbs, Darren Prehn; four sisters, Mabel Stone, Louise Nelson, Janice Allen, Gladys Mae Major; four brothers, Clarence Nelson, Lee Nelson, Benjaman Nelson, and Larry Nelson.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of funeral services at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Charles West will officiate. Burial will follow at Woodland Hill Cemetery in East Alton.

Memorials are suggested to the 5A's or to OSF St. Anthony's Hospice and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.