Charlie Nelson

Harry Charles “Charlie” Nelson II passed away peacefully on January 16, 2021 after a two-year battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Fran Nelson.

The youngest of four, Charlie was born on October 21, 1948. His life was guided by a strong work ethic, a competitive spirit, a sense of humor, and love for his family. He attended St. Elizabeth Grade School, De La Salle High School and Rockhurst College where he earned a degree in business management. Charlie worked in the wholesale wine and spirits industry for more than 40 years, first for Missouri Conrad and then for Southern Glazers, where he retired in 2019.

Throughout his years, Charlie most enjoyed time spent sharing food, fun and laughter with family and friends. Some of his favorite memories were from family dinners, weekend lake trips, watching sports with his buddies at local water holes and attending Chiefs’ games and tailgates. Charlie was a life-long athlete until rugby injuries forced him into retirement. He was a devoted fan of the Missouri Tigers, the Kansas City Chiefs and his beloved KC Blues Rugby Football Club. He liked to challenge himself and enjoyed his early morning work-outs, solving the daily newspaper crossword and reading and learning about military history.

Above all, Charlie was a supportive, loving husband, father, and grandfather who cherished time spent with his family. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lynda; daughters Lindsay and Kelly; granddaughters Kathleen and Julia; sisters Ginny (Tom), Janet, and Mary; and many close friends and relatives.

Charlie was a tough, resilient man with a strong spirit who loved life and lived it well. He will be missed by many.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the memorial service and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Charlie’s name to the American Cancer Society (https://donate3.cancer.org/).