Joseph Lynn Nelson

Joseph Lynn “Joe” Nelson (77) of Frisco, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. Surrounded by the memories of his hobbies, interests, and loved ones, Joe's journey through life was filled with laughter, joy, and a love for all things that made his heart race.

Growing up just blocks from Dallas Love Field, Joe found himself drawn to the skies at an early age. General and military aviation held a special place in his heart, fueling dreams of freedom and exploration. As soon as he was able, Joe earned his private pilot’s license and began learning to fly. Whether he was flying or attending airshows, he was always captivated by the wonder of flight. In a moment of pure exhilaration, Joe once experienced the thrill of flying his all-time favorite airplane, a P-51 Mustang, a memory he cherished throughout his life.

But Joe's need for speed was even more evident below the clouds. On the ground, he reveled in the world of motorsports, especially those involving Chevrolet race cars and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Through high school and for many years that followed, street racing, dragsters and off-road cars were his passions, and he was a master under the hood. Joe loved to tell stories of those times, most of which included his partner-in-crime, Tom Hurley, who remained a dedicated and lifelong friend. Later in life, Tom and Joe successfully drove their high-school race car, a ‘57 Chevy named “Old Stewball,” over 200 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, breaking a record in their class. NASCAR racing was another passion that brought Joe endless excitement. From cheering on Dale Earnhardt to attending classic car shows, he never missed a chance to indulge in the four-wheeled world.

Beyond the thrill of wheels and wings, Joe enjoyed quieter moments as well. He had a love for movies (especially those featuring Tom Cruise) and the timeless tunes of oldies rock-n-roll, both of which often set the stage for gatherings with friends and family. Joe also cherished his time with his Australian Shepherd dogs, Shawnee and Sadie, who were always by his side, providing loyal companionship and sharing countless memories. He and Shawnee supported the Diabetes Research Foundation by participating in many walks for the cure.

Joe's meticulous nature shined through in all aspects of his life. After graduating from North Dallas High School, he worked to put himself through college where he graduated with an accounting degree from the University of North Texas. One of Joe’s proudest achievements was his service with the Military Police in the United States Army in upstate New York, where he served with honor and dedication. After college and his military service, Joe spent his career as an accountant and CPA in both private practice and in industry, and spent his later career working in the financial software and technology field. His academic and professional careers showcased his commitment to precision and excellence, leaving an enduring mark on those who worked with him.

Joe loved his family. He was a dedicated father and grandfather to many, but above all, Joe's heart belonged to his beloved wife of 35 years, Lorna. Their years together were filled with unending love and support, and she was the anchor that kept him steady through all of life's challenges. Of the places they traveled together, Hawaii always held a special allure for Joe, and he cherished every moment he shared there with Lorna. In Joe's final years of struggling health her unwavering devotion and care for Joe were extraordinary and Joe’s love for Lorna was ever present until the end.

In addition to his wife, Lorna, Joe is survived by his children and stepchildren, Kelly (Jeffrey) Watson, Jennifer (Michael) Moore, and Kyle (Mandy) Nelson; grandchildren Timothy, Patrick, and Dillon (Bailey) Shaw, Matilda Watson; Sam and Grace Casares; Nicholas, Mackenzie, and Parker Fiore; Sloane, Miles, and Mia Nelson; great grandchild Roan Shaw as well as nieces, nephews and many extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Ida Belle and Druie Nelson; his brother, Pat Nelson; his daughter, Joely Nelson, his stepson, Joey Fiore; and his grandson Alfredo “Freddie” Casares. While his time here may have come to an end, Joe’s passion, joy, love for life, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held in the coming weeks where the family and dearest friends will enjoy all of Joe’s favorite things in his memory.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to PSP&CBD Foundation (pspcbdfoundation.org) to support their mission of accelerating research for Corticobasal Degeneration or to the American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org) to help people living with diabetes. Additionally, any support for the SPCA of Texas (spca.org) would be a thoughtful tribute.