Nelson E. Sperry

He was born February 14, 1927, son of Clifford and Lena (Bailey) Sperry in Orland, IN. He graduated from Orland High School in 1945, however his mother received his diploma as Nelson had joined the fight during World War II by signing up to serve in the United States Navy. He married the love of his life on November 30, 1947, and they went on to raise 5 children. Although he spent a brief time as a truck driver, he returned to his farming roots and was a lifelong dairy farmer. He served as the President of the Steuben County Farm Bureau, was a member of the Orland American Legion, and served in various committees and capacities throughout the years. In their retirement years they spent the winters in FL where he became an avid golfer and shuffleboard champ.

He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Ilarene (Forrester) Sperry; daughters Sharolyn DeMetre and Betsey (Jerry) Corless of Coldwater, MI, and Susan (Stephen) Benton of Beloit WI, and one son, Douglas Sperry (Marie Straub) of Coldwater, MI; 13 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and 6 great, great grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Noel (Alice) Sperry of LaGrange, IN; Jackson (Nancy) Sperry of Orland, IN; and 1 sister, Vada Ann Whetstone, of Three Rivers, MI, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter Darlena NorDyke, and siblings Dale Sperry, Merry Rhodabaugh, Pricilla Atkins, and Nancy Beck.

Honoring his wishes, he will be cremated.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the farm on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at 11 am, 192 East Copeland Road, Coldwater, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers please direct donations to the Stokes Chapel United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 272, Camden, Michigan 49232 in his memory.