Gary Lee Nelson

Gary L. Nelson, 73, of Hamilton, IL, formerly of Elvaston, IL, died Friday, December 28, 2018 at his home. Gary was born on March 31, 1945 in Aurora, IL, the son of Homer and Irene Pelliter Nelson. On August 31, 1973 Gary was united in marriage to Carol D. Husk in Indianapolis, Indiana. Gary attended the Nauvoo schools and then graduated from Aquinas High School in Fort Madison, IA with the Class of 1963. He later went on to receive his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Gary proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in counter intelligence. He retired from the Indianapolis Police Dept at the age of 39. He then went on to other ventures, owning and operating an Ice Cream Store and an electronics firm, selling real estate for Sutlive Realty for a number of years, becoming a massage therapist, and selling hot dogs out of his concession wagon. Gary was a member of the American Legion Post #41 in Keokuk, the Hamilton Lions Club, the NRA, and the Retired Police Officers Association. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carol Nelson of Hamilton, one daughter, Michele Briggs of Salem, IA, two grandchildren, Cody Briggs and Ashley Briggs Tadlock and also his faithful companion, his dog, Buddy. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son-in-law, Robert W. Briggs, and a brother, Larry Nelson. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 3, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Gregg Wiegel officiating. Burial with military rites was held in the Nauvoo City Cemetery, Nauvoo, IL. Visitation was after 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 2, with the family meeting with friends from 6 - 8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Blessing Hospice in Quincy or Wounded Warriors Family Support, 11218 John Galt Blvd #103, Omaha, NE 68137.