John Douglas Nelson

John was born in Gurley, a small town in western Nebraska. His childhood was filled with valuable experiences. He had a pig and sold the piglets, he graduated to a sheep which produced lambs. At the age of 10 he earned $100, enough to buy a horse. His grandfather had homesteaded a ranch, which provided John with the opportunity to round up cattle, and help with the branding, which was an exciting event. His father was very musical and had him take piano lessons for several years. He played all the available sports and was the quarterback of the football team.

The Korean war was going on while John was at the University of Colorado. He joined the Naval ROTC and he graduated in 1955 with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing. He was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.

After two years in the Navy at the Willow Grove Air Station near Philadelphia, John returned to Denver, where he met Nancy. They married in 1960 and had two children. John David and Susan Elizabeth.

John’s career was in banking beginning at the First National Bank of Denver and ending at CitiBank. During the 1980’s he served as the President of the Colorado Bank Administration Institute. Many lifelong friends were made at Skyline Acres, a great family club. Many hours were spent on the tennis court. A group of former members still get together each month for lunch.

Red Feather Lakes was John’s favorite place for relaxation. The family fished and hiked, sat on the deck, enjoying the scenery, the hummingbirds, water fowl, eagles, and an occasional deer or moose (A special bonus).

Copper Mountain provided winter recreation. Everyone enjoyed skiing, especially on blue sky powder days. The beauty of Colorado was never taken for granted. Memories of the fun mystery parties with friends added to the enjoyment.

Although it was difficult to leave our friends and home of 47 years, Stoney Brook became a lifesaver. John began playing pickleball with a gracious group of ladies. It was referred to as his “harem", until Bud joined the group. The friends we made at Stoney Brook helped with the transition.

John was very patriotic and supported veteran groups. He sometimes wore his politics on his sleeve, much to Nancy’s dismay.

John passed away peacefully at home on November 11, 2024. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 64 years, Nancy, and daughter Susan Nelson (Nigel Clayton). He was preceded in death by his loving son John David in 2014.

Donations can be made to a charity of your choice in John’s Memory.

Celebration of Life Service and Open House will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Olinger Hampden Mortuary, 8600 E. Hampden Ave., Denver, CO 80231.