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RONALD THOMAS NELSON Obituary pic RONALD THOMAS NELSON Obituary pic

RONALD THOMAS NELSON

Born: Dec 13, 1932

Date of Passing: Jul 05, 2013

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RONALD THOMAS NELSON Ronald Thomas Nelson of Winnipeg, MB passed away peacefully, on Friday, July 5, 2013 surrounded by his beloved wife, family and loved ones at the age of 80. He was predeceased by his parents Thomas Nelson and Annie Atkinson Gilmore. He is survived by his wife Ollie (nee Grenda), brother John, sister Gloria, his children Peter, Mark, Kathryn, Deborah and Sharlene, and his stepdaughters Julie, Kathy, Laura and Susan; 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He travelled often to Western Canada on vacation to spend time with his family. He had a quiet sense of humor, enjoyed being on the water and was a hobby sailor. He was a self-taught mechanic and, proudly, never owned a new car. Dad was born in Verdun, PQ, on December 13, 1932. He lived in the Montreal area for most of his youth until he joined the Air Force. He met his first wife Ellen Smith and they had two sons and three daughters. He was transferred a few times, with eight years in the Goderich, ON area and a final transfer to Winnipeg where he remained until he retired from the Air Force. He promptly moved to the Department of National Defence, first working for Bristol Aerospace and then other numerous positions within the DND organization. In his retirement he met his second love Ollie. They had a fondness for dancing and were married for 18 years. He was honoured by the Government of Canada for 45 years of public service. This includes 25 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces (Air Force) and 20 years working for the Department of National Defense. At the age of 45 he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in psychology and philosophy. He continued to pursue educational opportunities which earned him numerous certificates and diplomas. This education and insight into the concerns and welfare of people in general prompted Dad to actively serve those less fortunate. He had a wonderful talent to help people to see and rise to their potential. He was both an example and a source of strength. Everyone knew they could count on Ron. He regularly contributed time and money to people and organizations that required help. This support continued until the day he died. He was a long standing member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) where he held many positions of leadership. He was a gifted speaker and teacher of gospel principles. He especially enjoyed teaching the youth and spent his last 13 years teaching early morning Seminary to youth 14 to 18 years old. In fact, if you could not arrange to get to his classes he would travel to get you. He eventually got a bus type vehicle and travelled the city to pick up his students. He leaves a legacy of service both to the community and his church. He spent countless hours ensuring the welfare of others. He was a leader and teacher and a perfect example of service. He clearly understood that Charity was the true love and expression of Christ. Memorial Service to be held Saturday, July 13, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, London Chapel, 700 London St. (North Kildonan), Winnipeg, MB. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Siloam Mission.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 09, 2013

Condolences & Memories (21 entries)

  • On behalf of my entire family, sincere condolences to all of Ron's family. He served and associated with joy! And we enjoyed and appreciated his service and association and friendship. We know he will be sadly missed. - Posted by: jean momberger (Baty) (friend) on: Jul 15, 2013

  • Brother Nelson would drive my friend John Lastiwka to church every Sunday. He was what we would call a 5th angel, meaning a mortal messenger from God. He was quiet, but not silent. He was humble, but not ashamed. He was strong, but not forceful. He was like gravity- always there, always pulling you safely back to where you were supposed to be. I only knew Brother Nelson for a short time while I served in the Gateway ward ( 9months) and only had a few short conversations with him outside of the church setting, but he inspired in me a desire to serve. Not just serve my time, but serve in the life-giving way he exemplified. From the obituary above- "Everyone knew they could count on Ron." I don't think this is truer of anyone I've met prior to Brother Nelson, or since. He was truly stalwart. - Posted by: Stephen Ritter (Winnipeg Missionary) on: Jul 13, 2013

  • Ron Nelson was more than a friend to me. He was a mentor, counsellor, and in many ways a real father. He always pushed me to be than I thought I could be. Once when I was about 15 or 16 and about to do something "stupid", my Mom said, "What would Ron Nelson think about that". I have often thought that phrase for many years. I last saw Ron at my Mom's funeral and he asked if we should get the mats out for one more wrestle. I deeply miss Ron and look forward to "one more wrestle". - Posted by: Brian Lillie (Friend) on: Jul 13, 2013

  • Ron has shown me about the meaning of true giving. Right up until the end and during his greatest suffering and pain, all Ron would do is show his caring for his children, family and friends. He never asked for anything for himself during these rough last few days, he constantly enjoyed listening to his children and wife; everyone around him in the house, laughing, talking, crying and sharing life's memories. I would see this little smile come to his face when something humorous happened around him. I will take this with me Ron, thank you from the bottom of my heart, it is something that I will ensure I do when my days are nearing their end. Love always and be safe wherever you are now. Neil - Posted by: Neil Ligertwood (Step Son) on: Jul 12, 2013

  • I've known Ron for many many years. He was a lovely, kind, gentle soul and a great friend. I will miss him always. - Posted by: Millie Babiuk and Family (Family Friend) on: Jul 11, 2013

  • Abraham 3:22... "and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones. D&C 138:56,57...and (they) were prepared to come forth in the due time of the Lord to labor in his vineyard for the salvation of the souls of men....(And) when they depart from mortal life, (they) continue their labors...among those who are in darkness...in the great world of the spirits of the dead." Ron was a noble and great person here - to everyone. His work just continues where he is now. We will miss him but others need him, too. - Posted by: Doreen Bennett(Lillie) (Friend) on: Jul 11, 2013

  • I have been friends with Ron for almost 47 years. The experiences I had with Ron over that period made my life's journey a little easier and much more fun. Till we meet again dear friend. - Posted by: Wayne Drozdowski (friend) on: Jul 11, 2013

  • Brother Ron Nelson had a smile on his face every time I saw him, a true Man of God, who honoured his Priesthood, humbly. He will be missed by many. I will always remember his willingness to serve, even if it meant driving in poor weather conditions, to meet his commitments. And, he had a great sense of ha-ha, but always with grace and respect. - Posted by: Diana Robbins (fellow Mormon) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • What greater tribute could be paid to a fellow human being than that Ron demonstrated in all aspects of his life a Christ-like love for his fellow beings. He had a profound impact on our lives for which we will forever be thankful. Bryce and Elizabeth Christensen - Posted by: Bryce and Elizabeth Christensen (Friends) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • Whenever I was in Winnipeg I loved tender conversations with Ron. He baptized me a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was always a friend of our family. As a young child he taught me service by his example in our home. He was quiet, deep, funny, and a true disciple. My thoughts are with all of you and know that I loved you father, grandfather, and husband. - Posted by: Sharon Lillie Hewlett (Friend, ) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • I will always remember Ron'S huge smile. He was a natural at making you feel comfortable and accepted. He was genuinely interested in my well being. - Posted by: Rick Orr (Friend) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • Ron (aka Brother Nelson) was the type of man others could look to for mentorship, and advice; he freely and naturally lead in good causes and inspired others to follow in the path he trod. He was equally kind, compassionate, and engaging. What a great person he is, and what a great privilege it has been to know him! - Posted by: Andrew Palmer (Friend) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • Ron was an excellent teacher and always encouraged us to be better. In the nearly 40 years I have known him, he has always earned the respect and admiration of those around him for his love and concern for others. - Posted by: Michael Varey (Friend) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • He will be greatly missed. He always had a warm handshake for everyone he met and always made you feel special. He had a great love for people and always went the extra mile for them. Our lives have been made better because he was in them. - Posted by: Darcy Monchamp ((Friend)) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • You have left a treasure in my heart full of love, wisdom, and kindness. I smile each time I think of your amazing great wit-so funny and brilliant. Your incredible patience was unmatched and your humbleness was so admirable! An astute interest in everyone that was lucky to be around you. More than just 'wanting' to follow your footsteps, many 'try' to follow yours...WOW! A life-long list of contributions to make this a better world. I wake-up every morning saying what you always said- "Woke up breathing...It's gonna Be a Great day!" ...words to live by. Thank-you for sharing your life with us all. Forever you will be dearly loved and missed....so much already! - Posted by: Kathy Sullivan (Stepdaughter) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • I can remember when Bro. Nelson was representing as a stake high councilor to the Wellington Ward (YSA) when I was still calling it my home not that long ago, but time sure did fly by since. So I will always recall seeing Bro. Nelson at church magnifying his calling as a high councilor for the YSA Ward. Thank You for the memories! - Posted by: Myron Burrows (fellow ward member of Gateway Ward) on: Jul 10, 2013

  • True man of God. Love u brother nelson and appreciate everything you did for me! Rest in peace and peace be with you till we meet again... - Posted by: Alex aguilar (Friend) on: Jul 09, 2013

  • Grandpa will be missed, he was a great example of service and had loving spirit. - Posted by: James Barker (Grand-son) on: Jul 09, 2013

  • Wonderfully written dad, grandpa Ron will be greatly missed! - Posted by: Rachel Nelson (Grand-Daughter) on: Jul 09, 2013

  • I was 12 when he picked our family up to take us to Church. For many, many Sundays he "helped" us get to where he knew we needed to be. Thanks to him and his wonderful family. - Posted by: Doreen Bennett (Lillie) (Friend) on: Jul 09, 2013

  • We've known Ron for many years and he was the perfect example of a Christian gentleman. He used all his wonderful gifts and talents for the building up of others and often in ways others would never know. Our lives were enriched for the experience of knowing and working with this fine Brother. - Posted by: Glenn and Gerry Cranwill (friend) on: Jul 09, 2013

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