J. Kenneth Nelson
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of J. Kenneth Nelson, who left this world peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Sunday, May 18th at the age of 84.
Born October 11, 1940, “Kenny” lived a life full of kindness, wisdom, and dedication to those he loved. His passion for working on cars at a young age led to a successful career as a mechanic in the Alton area. He graduated from Alton High School in 1958. If your car was making a noise, call him and make the noise, and he would be able to tell you the problem and volunteer to help with the repairs. He loved racing, going to car shows, and was able to enjoy these adventures with his friends and family.
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh & Bernice Nelson of Fosterburg, where he and his siblings grew up, as well as two brothers who preceded him in death, Charles E. and M. Jerry Nelson. He is survived by a sister, Janet L. (Nelson) Wood of St. Charles, MO, and brother, Norman A. Hunt of Bethalto.
Kenneth will be deeply missed by his wife of 62 years, Donna L. (Frazier) Nelson, who resides in Bunker Hill, and their three children, Richard (Wisconsin), Steve (Jerseyville), and Tammy (East Alton), many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Kenny was always a giving man, and upon his death, he donated his body to St. Louis University to assist future doctors in understanding the human body. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the fundraiser to purchase a grave marker for “Ken.”