William Nelson Jr

William Edward Nelson Jr.

December 7, 1934 - January 20, 2006

William "Bill" Edward Nelson, Jr., 71, was called from this life on January 20, 2006, while surrounded by family. He lost a four year battle with cancer.

Bill was born December 7, 1934 to William and Ruby (Schmidt) Nelson on the family farm west of Bartley. At age 8, the family moved to the present day Nelson farm north of Bartley. Bill never lived more than two miles from where he was born.

At an early age, Bill learned the trade of welding. His first welder sat beneath a tree in the front yard. Bill was known and respected for miles around for his welding, whether fixing or building, and for his farming. He was recognized for his dedication to the land and his neighbors.

After graduation and the death of his father in 1953, Bill began farming full time. The farm was the love of his life until March 6, 1955, when Bill married Bernelda Artz. To this union, three children were born. Bill and Bernelda celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past year in Arizona.

His joys in life, outside of spending time with family, were building and creating with iron, racing motorcycles, building dune buggies and playing in the high desert of Arizona. He will be greatly missed by a multitude of family and friends.

Bill was a member of the Bartley Christian Church, Bartley Lions Club, National Rifle Association, McCook Elks Lodge and Fraternal Order of Eagles. He served on the Board of the Bartley Equity.

Preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Dean.

Survivors include his wife, Bernelda and special dog, Molly, of Bartley; a daughter, Kem and husband, Dennis McConville, of Indianola; two sons Kevin Nelson and wife, Deb, of Omaha and Chris Nelson of Bartley; one sister, Norma Nelson and husband, Don, of Delaware; four grandchildren Dannette Miller, Dustin McConville and wife, Shelley, Derek McConville and wife, Paige, and Shana Koetter; six great-grandchildren; two nieces and a nephew; and a host of relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice in care Community Health Foundation.

Visitation will be Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during business hours and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home. Friends may send condolences to www.carpenterbreland.com.

Funeral service will be Friday, January 27, 2006, 2:00 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Chapel in McCook with Rev. Sam Williams officiating. Burial will be in the Bartley Cemetery.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.

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