Ernest H. Nelson

Ernest Hjalmar Nelson was born at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, California on May 16th 1917 to parents of Hjalmar and Gerda Linnea Nelson. Shortly after his birth they moved to to Bisbee, Arizona where his father did construction work. At the age of two he moved to Meriden, Iowa (Cherokee County). He lived there until he was 19 years old. He graduated from Cleghorn High school in 1935 and was best known for his perfect attendance and his ability to spell. At the age of nineteen He moved back to Los Angeles, California with his family after the farming business proved to be a problem due to drought. He furthered his education by going to Diesel engineering trade school in the evening.

He began working at the North Hollywood Post Office as a mail carrier after passing the Civil Service Test in the top 5% of the class. In later years he took several classes to perfect his skills in the postal services as a superintendent.

In 1939 he met Gladys Aldridge Nelson at a Baptist Church function. After a wonderful of time of dating, Ernest and Gladys were united in the bonds of marriage on June 8th 1941 in Las Vegas, Nevada. They celebrated 60 years as husband and wife.

In March of 1943 he was called to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He served during World War II with tours of duty in England, France and Germany. He earned the rank of Master Sergeant His primary job during his tour of service was acting as a mail carrier. He was a part of the 17th Base Post Office.

After faithfully serving his country he returned home in February 14, 1946. After returning home from duty he resumed his position at North Hollywood Post Office and progressed in his carrier mail service to the position of Superintendent.

On May 18, 1947 Ernest and Gladys welcomed into the world their first son Linn Ernest Nelson. Then on April 28th 1952 once again Ernest and Gladys would uniquely welcome into the world Dennis Lee and Carol Ethel Nelson who were twins. Ernest love was indeed his family.

They loved to go camping, fishing, and waterskiing in several different locations throughout the U.S.

Ernest as a child was baptized into Christ and later on confirmed his conviction during his time of confirmation. His commitment to Christ and to the Lutheran Church continued throughout his life. He acted as a faithful servant in areas of ushering and financial stewardship.

He also served as brotherhood chairman for the men’s group. Along with his service to his church he served as a Cub Scout Master and a committee chairman for the Boys Scouts of America.

He was very pleased to see both of his sons earn the honor of Eagle Scout in the Boys Scouts of America. Ernest was also a very gifted craftsman having help build his father home and two homes of his own. He assisted in building both of his son’s homes. He was also very instrumental in helping his daughter achieve her dream of entering into the Nursing profession.

Ernest retired from the post office in 1973. Six years later Ernest and Gladys moved to Beaverton, Oregon in 1979. Even though he was retired he returned to work for 14 years with Barnel International.

Also being faithful in his commitment to serve the Lord, his family joined St Matthew Lutheran Church in 1984. For over 37 years he enjoyed the fellowship. Most importantly their life in Beaverton provided the privilege of not only enjoying one another but also enjoying their seven grandchildren. Their seven grandchildren are David Linn, Lisa Linnea Nelson, Karabel Lin, Heather Joy, Heidi Lee Nelson, Christi Carol and David John Crippen.

On November 6th, 2001 Gladys left this earth to meet her maker. In the fall of 2003 he moved to his new condo in Portland, Oregon where his two faithful grandsons sought to take care of him in his later stages of his life. Ernest had many fun and memorable activities in his life, including traveling around the world to places such as Sweden, Greece, Switzerland, Canada, He also had many adventures at Diamond Lake and fishing for trout. He at the age of 91 caught his limit out at Diamond Lake. He loved to take pictures and help people smile with his special sense of humor. Even at the age of 93, Ernie could be found bouncing around in the pool at Beaverton Swim Center.

But most of all he was mindful that the Lord was a great tour guide and Shepherd. He took time to lead the family in prayer at the dinner table. He was indeed a humble man of faith. He was so ever grateful for that entire rally alongside him throughout his journey of life.

He left this earth to meet his Lord and Savior on March 25 2011 at the age of 93.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 30, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Pegg, Paxson & Springer Chapel. Private family burial will be at Willamette National Cemetery March 30, 2011. Memorial service will be April 16, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 10390 SW Canyon Rd. in Beaverton.

Suggested Memorial Contributions are to be to Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, National Headquarters, 1777 F Street NW, suite 600, Washington, DC 20006 (1-800-959-8277) or to Big Horn Brass Concert, c/o St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 10390 SW Canyon Rd., Beaverton, OR 97005

Arrangements under the direction of Pegg, Paxson & Springer Funeral Chapel, Beaverton, OR.