Glenn Edward Nelson

Glenn Nelson was called by the Lord to join Him in Heaven on March 21, 2015. Through his actions and example Glenn left a positive mark on the world, and he will be missed dearly by those whose heart he touched. Glenn celebrated life to his very last days, always happy, always optimistic, always concerned about the well-being of others. In Heaven as on earth, Glenn will be welcomed as the peaceful, caring man that he was.

Glenn was born in Cambridge, IL on February 22, 1925. He was the 3rd of 7 children born to Axel and Amanda Nelson. As a youth Glenn assisted his family with operating the family farm. Music was a great source of joy for the Nelson family, and in the late 1930’s the children formed the Nelson 5 musical group, playing at fairs and venues around the area. Glenn’s specialty was singing and playing the banjo.

In 1945 Glenn moved to California along with most of his family including his mother and father, and settled in the San Diego area. Glenn stayed in San Diego for two years but returned to Cambridge with his father in 1948 to operate and then finally sell the family farm. In 1949 Glenn started working at the Rock Island Arsenal, where he was employed for a year before being called up for duty in the Korean War. For two years he served in Germany, Austria and Italy. After completing his service in 1952 he returned to his position at the Rock Island Arsenal.

In 1953 Glenn met Marion Woller at the Coliseum Ballroom and they were married a few months later. Their marriage resulted in a son, Steven, who was born December 3, 1956. Glenn stayed at the Rock Island Arsenal for 35 years, where he earned several Superior Service and Attendance Awards. After retiring in 1980 at the age of 56, Glenn competed in a number of running and athletic events in the Quad-Cities area well into his 70’s, where he earned several awards and medals for his age bracket. His greatest passion, however, was dancing, and he was well known for his spectacular style and grace.

Left to cherish his memory are son Steven Nelson and his wife Irene of Cypress, CA, brother Darrell Nelson of El Cajon, CA, his long-time companion Marge Perez of Bettendorf, members of his extended family, his many friends, and countless others who were fortunate enough to have met him and experienced his genuine kindness and caring.

Following a service at the Runge Mortuary at 12 Noon on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, Glenn will be buried at Davenport Memorial Park. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be made at www.rungemortuary.com.