Eugene Nelson

Eugene Nelson

Eugene NelsonEugene “Bud” Edward Nelson age 93 of Westbrook passed away Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Westbrook Good Samaritan Center Nursing Home.  Memorial Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday August 23, 2017 at Grace Lutheran Church in Westbrook. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. Interment in the Westbrook Cemetery.  Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com.  Stephens Funeral Service – Westbrook Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Eugene “Bud” Edward Nelson was born September 14, 1923 to Edward and Marian (Peterson) Nelson.  He spent his school years, 1-8 grades, in Westbrook Public Schools.  With World War II breaking out Bud enlisted in the Army Air Force in December 1942.  During that time he spent 3 ½ years overseas in North Africa, India, Burma and China.  Bud was honorably discharged April 1946.  After returning home he drove his school bus and did some family farming.  Bud married Arlene Schmalz on March 12, 1950 at the now Grace Lutheran Church in Westbrook.  In 1957 they adopted their daughter Ronda Kay.  Bud enjoyed taking her out to the farm to help with chores, teaching her to fish, hunt pheasant and change a flat tire. After the farm was sold Bud did long distance trucking for Kvilhaug’s and hauled mail for the USPS.  He enjoyed spending time with his two granddaughters Alicia and Christel.  In 1999 the President of the United States determined those unable to obtain a high school diploma during WWII, because of active duty, should be honored by getting their diplomas at a special ceremony.  Bud received his High School diploma at that time.  It meant so much to him.  Bud has been a member of the VFW and American Legion for many years. He has lived his entire life in the Westbrook area except for one year when he was a mechanic for a trucking company and lived in Eagle Lake, MN.

Bud is survived by his wife Arlene Nelson; daughter Ronda (Mac) Habicht; granddaughters: Alicia (Mark) Spindler and Christel Schmidt (friend Justin Nichols); great-grandchildren: Nathan and Leah Spindler; step grandchildren: Briana (Josh) Jensen and Arhen (Leah) Habicht; step great-grandchildren: Chloe Jensen, Verena and Jackson Habicht.  He is preceded in death by his parents Edward and Marian (Peterson) Nelson, his sister Lorraine Masterson and great-grandson Ian Spindler.

5 thoughts on “Eugene Nelson”

  1. Treacy (Masterson) Van De Wynkel

    Dear Arlene and family,

    I was so saddened to hear of Uncle Bud’s death. I always remember Bud as such a gentle and kind man. My deepest condolences on the loss of your wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. I am sorry we won’t be able to get to the funeral. I don’t even have your phone numbers and addresses. I would love to hear from you and keep in touch, maybe via Christmas card. Please email me your contact info if you would like to do that. Again, I am so very sorry for your loss. Always hard to lose a parent, no matter their age.

    Love,
    Treacy

  2. Eunice Christensen

    Dear Arlene and family, Please know you will be in my thoughts and prayers in the coming days. It is so hard to lose a family member, especially one’s spouse of so many years. I know what it is like, Arlene. You will never forget your years with Bud, just as I will always remember my time with Ronnie. Cherish your memories of happy times. I know the last few years have not been easy for either of you. May you feel God close to you in the days ahead. God does indeed love you. Sincerely, Eunice Christensen, Clive, IA

  3. Very sorry for your loss Christel, Justin & family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He sounds like he was an amazing man! Thank you for his service.

    With deepest Sympathy,

    Katie
    Carbase.com

  4. To Arlene, Ronda & family:

    I was saddened to see Uncle Bud’s obituary. My sister Treacy sent me the info. I have fond memories of Uncle Bud especially in the years growing up in Walnut Grove. He always had a smile on his face and we always looked forward to seeing him. My sincerest condolences. I will be unable to attend the services as I am in Cincinnati on a trip to multiple baseball games with some old friends.

    Love,
    Tom Masterson

  5. Dear Arlene and family,
    I am so sorry to hear about the passing of uncle Bud. He was such a wonderful person. I’m sure that he will be missed by your whole family.
    With deepest sympathy.
    Greg & Gail Masterson

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