Steven John Nelson

Steve (75) was born in Minneapolis, MN on Sept. 25, 1944 to Clarence (Nels) and Arlyle (Dottie) Cromis. At the age of 4, the family moved to Sacramento, CA. While a high school senior, Steve enlisted in the CA Army National Guard and upon graduation he joined the Army. While serving in Germany he was selected for Officer Candidate School receiving his commission at age 20. During his distinguished 28 year military career he received many awards and decorations including the Bronze Star with V Device, Purple Heart and Green Beret while serving in Vietnam.

Survived by his wife of 54 years Donna Nelson; son Bryan Nelson, his partner Deanna Recanati of ID, and his daughter Morgan Nelson of Folsom; daughter Shelley Orluck, her husband Ryan Orluck, and her stepson Joseph Orluck of Livermore; brother Gary Nelson his wife Judy of Fair Oaks; sister Kathy Craw her husband Jim Craw of Pleasant Hill; sister Alyce Nelson of Concord, MA; brother Carl Nelson of Gold River, and many nieces and nephews.

Steve graduated from Chapman University and many military courses. After retirement from the Army, Steve worked for Sac County in the Child Support Division until his retirement. Steve was a 25 year member of his Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Ben Ali Shrine. He loved spending time with his family and model railroads.

Steve will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. Those wishing to make a donation in Steve’s memory please consider Legion of Honor c/o Ben Ali Shrine 3262 Marysville Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95815.

Due to the current COVID protocols for Sac/Placer/El Dorado County, guests

must wear protective masks at all times while inside the funeral home facility

and practice the recommended six foot social distancing.