Obituary of Robert John Nelson

Robert John Nelson, 86, passed away on Friday, February 8, 2013. He is preceded in death by his parents, John Eugene “Gene” and Gertrude Nelson and brother, Richard Nelson. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Elvira Nelson; sons, John Louis and wife Lisa, Gregory Paul and wife Angela, Robert Andrew and wife, Celina, Donald and wife, Rosa, Francisco Javier, Marco Thomas and wife, Jannette; daughters, Bernadette Emerick and husband, Thomas, Mary Rose Shinn and husband, Angela M. Sinnott and husband Paul, Barbara Dillon and husband, and Maria Magdalena and husband John Koskoski. He is also survived by his brothers, Bill Nelson and wife, Peg, Tom Nelson and wife, Maureen; sisters, Betty Jane Nelson, Mary Ann Bogan, Patricia Shields and husband, Jim; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends. Bob was born in Spokane, Washington on May 6, 1926. He grew up in Short Hills, New Jersey and later lived in Florida & California. From an early age, he loved spending time in the outdoors, especially on the farm with animals. He held various jobs during his early years, but his dream of having a ranch and cattle came true for him when he moved to Guadalajara, Mexico with his wife Elvira & their 5 children. The family had a wonderful & adventurous time living on the ranch. “Bob” as he was known to his American family or ” Don Roberto” as he was called by his extended family & friends in Mexico, was a hard working and extremely energetic man. He was unique in his approach to life in that he followed his dreams no matter what the odds were & he never gave up. He believed deeply in God & the importance of family togetherness. As long as the 5 children lived at home, he insisted in all saying an evening prayer together. He was full of love & commitment to his family. Bob was affectionately known as “Abuelo” or Grandpa to his grandchildren. He was a good provider and role model for his family all his life. Bob was an avid reader and enjoyed sharing many wonderful memories of his time living in Mexico. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him. A visitation for Bob will be held on Monday, February 11, 2013 from 5:00 until 8:00 pm with a Rosary recited at 6:00 pm at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581. The funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at 2:00 pm at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2209 Old Alvin Road, Pearland, Texas 77581.