John Nelson

MARION, VIRGINIA: JOHN R. (BOB) NELSON of Marion died on Friday, January 5, 2007, from complications of pneumonia at Wythe County Community Hospital. He was 85. He was born January 8th, 1921 in Marion, Indiana to the late John W. Nelson and Alice Roberts Nelson. Bob married Jeanne Swanger in 1946, and the two raised their family in Marion, Virginia, where they lived for over 50 years. Bob was Vice President of Harwood Manufacturing Corporation until his retirement in 1990. Bob lived a life of service to his country, church, and community. A veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, he earned the Silver Star for bravery in combat during World War II. Bob dedicated himself to church life, serving many years on the vestry as well as Sunday School Teacher, Superintendent and Senior Warden at Christ Episcopal Church in Marion. In the community, Bob was active in Kawanis and the Chamber of Commerce, serving at state level in the 1980s. He served on the Boards of the Bank of Marion, Smyth County Community Hospital, and the Emory and Henry College Board of Visitors. He was the Rotary Man of the Year over age 35 in 1965. He was recognized numerous times by the community for his selfless service to others. Bob will be remembered by his many friends and family for his fairness, integrity, and sense of humor. He enjoyed gardening, walking his dogs, and was an avid sports fan, especially of Indiana basketball and Tennessee football. He is survived by his wife Jeanne Swanger Nelson; his children John R. Nelson, Jr, and wife Sarah, Tina N. Quillian and husband Bill, Bill Nelson, and Alice Nelson And husband, Pat; seven grandchildren, Chris Hudson and wife Robyn, Jay Nelson and wife, Amy, Elliott Nelson and wife Erin, Blair Nelson, Jordan Nelson, Laura Quillian and Quint Quillian; Three great-grandchildren, Jack Hudson, Graham Hudson and Penelope Nelson. Funeral Services will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Marion on Tuesday, January 9, 2007, at 11:00 am. With Rev. Christopher Mason and Rev. James H. Bangle officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the home, 917 Oak Lane, Marion, Virginia. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Christ Episcopal Church, c/o Bob Shults, P.O. Box 189, Marion, Virginia 24354.