John R. Nelson

John Raleigh Nelson, age 90, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 2, 2021. John was born to the late Ruth Kerr and Raleigh Nelson on December 27, 1930 in Fort Wayne. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17. During his tour, John was deployed to several areas around the world; ultimately finding his way to South Korea during the Korean War. He served a total of 32 years (active/reserves), retiring in 1980 with the rank of Sergeant Major. In 1958, John joined the Fort Wayne Police Department. He proudly served in many different capacities within the Department, retiring in 1980 at the rank of Master Sergeant. From there, he was employed, as an investigator, by the Indiana Department of Family and Children. While serving on the Police Department, John became one of nine officers who founded the Fort Wayne Chapter of the Police Athletic League. PAL, as its better known, was established to offer the youth of Fort Wayne the opportunity to participate in sports and other programs designed to build confidence, citizenship and good sportsmanship while building a relationship of trust and friendship between police officers and the area youth. John had a special passion for the Police Athletic League, serving on the Board over 60 years, until the time of his death. For his dedication and service to the community, John received many accolades and awards over the years; including the “Distinguished Hoosier” award presented by the Governor of Indiana. In his leisure time, John enjoyed playing golf and watching Chicago Cubs baseball. John married Phyllis A. Butts on June 7, 1957. They settled in Fort Wayne and had five children. John was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; parents, Ruth and Raleigh; sister, Suzanne Schreiner; stepbrother, William (Bill) Nelson; son-in-law, Allen Boehnlien. He is survived by his children, Jim Nelson, Pam Boehnlein, David (Michelle) Nelson, Eric (Kelley) Nelson and Beth (Chris) Husband; 13 grandchildren; Megan, Lauren, Alexa, Matt, Cheyanne, Ari, Jack, Sam, Alena, Sara, Maddie, Gavin and Dylan; 9 great grandchildren, Cienna, Addison, Natalie, Graison, Mila, Quinn, Rowan, Bryce and Andi; sibling, Lloyd (Diane) Nelson; many nieces and nephews; and close friend, Sandy Shanbeck. Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Rd., Fort Wayne with visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, November 8, 2021 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Police Athletic League, 2121 Olladale Dr. Fort Wayne, Indiana 46808.