He was born on October 24, 1942 in Peoria to Carl and Faye (White) Nelson. He married Carol Ernst on September 17, 1966 in Peoria. She survives.
Jerry is also survived by one daughter, Cynthia Thompson; one son, Gerald Nelson Jr.; two granddaughters, Alexis and Alyssa Thompson; one sister, Linda (Paul) Kaizer; two sister in laws, Glenda Nelson and Patricia Nelson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and five brothers, Larry, Carl, Harry, Ken and William Nelson.
Jerry retired from Caterpillar where he was an assembler.
He was a U.S. Army Vietnam War Veteran.
Jerry was a devoted husband and father. He loved to work on cars and was always busy in his garage. If you needed anything done on your car, he was always there for you.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 from 5-7 p.m. at Remmert Funeral Home.
Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.
Carol would like to say a special thank you to Lori, Nicole, Jeremiah, Glenda, Linda and Pat Nelson for all their love and support, along with her son Jerry Jr. for all of his help. Also a special thank you to the East Peoria paramedics and fire fighters for all of their assistance.
Memorial contributions may be made to the East Peoria paramedics and fire fighters.
Online condolences may be made at www.remmertfuneralhome.com
