1938 – 2014
Thomspon – Robert Gunnar Nelson, 76, passed peacefully on Friday, March 14, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He courageously fought his battle with cancer, determined to give his best until his last breath. Robert was born in Willimantic, CT on March 3, 1938, the son of the late Gunnar G. and Mary (Zwierecki) Nelson.
His unique personality and sense of humor kept everyone guessing. As a teen he worked in the thread mills in Willimantic, saving for his college education. He served in the Army National Guard during the Korean Conflict. His career in mechanical engineering began at Torrington Manufacturing, moving on to Millers Falls Tool in Greenfield, MA as a design engineer in 1974. In 1979 he took the position of Engineering Manager at Superwinch in Putnam, CT. In 1998 he started his own consulting business as Nelson Associates and joined Bio Sensory in Putnam which he enjoyed immensely up until the summer of 2013.
He leaves his wife Antoinette “Toni” Nelson of 48 years; his children, Teresa (Nelson) Rheaume and her husband Kevin of Kennebunk, ME and Robert “Rob”, Jr. and his wife Lori of Milford, NH; his grandchildren, Monica, Madeline and Anthony Rheaume; his sister, Wanda (Nelson) Wright of Willimantic and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Ellen Rayhall and his grandson, Louis Nelson Rheaume.
He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed flying, shooting, hunting and fishing. He loved his garden and canning the fruits of his labor, especially his beans and blueberries. He also enjoyed time with his grandchildren, giving them rides on the tractor and swimming in the pool.
He will be forever missed by all his family, dearest friends, hunting buddies and the Sisters of Saint Martha whom he considered also as his children.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Robert’s family from 5:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, March 21, 2014 in the Valade Funeral Home, 20 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT. A gathering will begin in the funeral home at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 22, 2014 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in St. Joseph Church, 18 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations, may be made to St. Joseph Food Pantry and/or St. Joseph Church, 18 Main St. N. Grosvenordale, CT 06255. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Ricky & Joan Selby
Dear Toni & Family,
We were saddened to hear of Bob’s passing , we will cherish the wonderful memories we have – please keep in touch.
Love
Ricky & Joan
Ron & Barb Giordano
To the family of Bob. Our hearts go out to you Toni, as you know we have been praying daily for your family. Bob is now in his final journey with Jesus and the angels. Don’t worry, he will be looking after you and give you strength. We will keep you forever in our prayers. Ron & Barb (friends of Viv and Bob).
Barbara O'Toole
Toni, we were so sorry to hear that you have lost your beloved husband Bob. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Barbara & Bob
Ron and Cathy Ker
Toni, Cathy and I were very sorry to hear the passing of Bob. Joe told me a while back he was not doing well. Cathy and I have fond memories of visiting you so many years ago on our honeymoon. I enjoyed Bob when you and he visited Joe and Betty. We had many fun political discussions. I remember Bob and I dragging a very drunk Tim Sauer home from Joe and Betty’s wedding and Bob was driving. That was an adventure. Our prayers are with you and your family and we look forward to seeing you the next time you are in Thorold. Cathy and Ron Ker.
Pat Green
Toni
Our thougts and prayers are with you and your family on the passing of Bob. I hope you are doing Ok , I know you have alot of great memories with Bob . Take care Toni .
Love Pat and Brian Green
Kristine Durocher
Toni, my heart goes out to you and your family.
I thank God that He has provided a way to see our loved ones again.
I am sorry I didn’t get to Bobs memorial–I didn’t know about it until today. Enjoy those children and grandchildren– they will bring you a smile. Bob’s spirit will be with you always, in your heart and in all those he loved.