George R. Nelson Sr.

George R. Nelson, Sr., 89, of Portland, Oregon, passed away Monday, February 6, 2012. He was born on January 29, 1923 in Portland to the late Lewis C. and Ruth S. (Freese) Nelson. George grew up in the Portland area and graduated from Benson High School. He faithfully served his country in the United States Navy during World War II, and while stationed in California, he met his wife Della Wagar.

George was a machinist in the Navy, and after his honorable discharge he continued the trade. He worked for many years at Kach Machine Works on Swan Island in Portland. He could always be found tinkering around and fixing things. He enjoyed camping and travelling to the beautiful forests and National Parks of the west, including Yellowstone, and most especially, Mount Hood, for which he had a great affection. He loved animals; dogs, cats, and birds; and had an almost magnetic charm that they couldn’t resist, even to the point of getting such frequent visits from a neighbor’s dog that they ended up giving the dog to George. But most importantly, and most obvious to those who knew him, George was a man with a big heart. He was always around to help those in need. Throughout his lifetime he helped many people with anything they needed, and he was always happy to do so.

George is survived by his sons, George Nelson, Jr. and Ron Nelson; daughter Donna Gunn; grandchildren Bob Nelson, Father Ron Nelson, George Nelson III, and Melissa Nelson; and ten great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Dan Nelson, and his loving wife, Della, who he joined on her birthday, February 6.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 10:00am at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a committal service with full military honors at 11:00am at Willamette National Cemetery.

Donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice, or to the Oregon Humane Society.

Arrangements under the direction of Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, Portland, OR.