Leon Nelson

Leon Nelson passed away October 10, 2025 at the age of 88. He was born in Anahuac, Texas in August 1937 and raised in the small fishing and farming community of Smith Point, Texas where he grew to love fishing.

After graduation from high school in Galveston, Texas, Leon joined the U.S. Navy. During his service he enjoyed exploring the countries in the South Pacific but it was Portland, Oregon where he met the love of his life, Betty, while his ship was docked for repairs. He would return to Portland after completing his service to marry Betty. During their 66 years of marriage, they would welcome their only son, Jeff and enjoy many camping and fishing trips as a family. In retirement, they enjoyed travel by land and sea.

Leon spent 38 years working at Flightcraft as an Avionics Technician where he retired. During this time, he joined the Oregon Air National Guard serving 8 years on weekends. After retirement, he enjoyed working part-time at the Oregon Convention Center in the custodian department showcasing his remarkable work ethic, dedication to his profession and friendly southern personality assisting the public.

Leon was known for his kind, loving and generous nature, sharp sense of humor and infectious laugh, and great family values. He cherished his role as father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His hobbies included fishing, camping, traveling, watching football, but above all, he loved spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Eva Nelson and survived by his wife, Betty; son, Jeff, daughter-in-law Patty; grand-daughters, Emily Druyos (husband Tim) and Morgan Nelson; great-grandson, Graham Druyos; sister, Beth Newton and niece Ann Newton.

A Memorial Service will be held on October 27th at 10:30 am at Ross Hollywood Chapel.