Nelson Bud Wyatt Hardin USAF Col. Ret.

He was born October 30, 1919, in Beasley, Texas, to the late Edmond H. Hardin and his wife, Matephine. The third youngest of eleven children, Bud, was preceded in death by nine brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his adoring wife of 41 years, Dolores �Dee�; sons, James and wife, Jackie and Gary; grandchildren, Kyle and Dawn; younger brother, J.R. Hardin and wife, Maxine of Rosenberg, TX; beloved niece, Lynda Knoepfle and husband, Kevin; great-nephews, Lucas and Scott of Vacaville, CA; special nephew and niece, Al and Iris Meyer, also of Rosenberg, TX; and many other nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, great-nephews and great-nieces.

A decorated WW II veteran, he served in numerous locations around the world, which included spending 14 months as a prisoner of war in Germany during 1943-44, after the plane he was piloting was shot down over Holland.

After meeting and falling deeply in love, while at Dover AFB, Delaware, Bud and Dee married in 1966. Col Hardin retired from the US Air Force in 1969, at Pope AFB, North Carolina, after serving his country for 27 years, then he and Dee made their home in San Antonio, where they cherished the many dear and close friendships they developed over the past 38 years. Bud devoted his life to being the very best friend and husband to Dee, a task at which he excelled. An avid golfer, Bud enjoyed traveling to various parts of the country with Dee to play golf and visit friends. A quiet and honorable man, Bud, was dearly loved by many and will be greatly missed by his wife, family and friends.

A reception will be held at Windcrest United Methodist Church immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fisher House, Building 3623, George C. Beach Rd, Ft. Sam Houston, TX 78234-6200.