Martin L. Nelson

Martin L. Nelson, 83, of Rockford passed away Sunday February 21, 2016. He was born June 26, 1932 in Rockford to Nels “Oscar” and Hazel (Ludwig) Nelson. Martin served in the Army during the Korean War. He worked as a computer programmer for Cotta Transmission for many years. Martin enjoyed spending time with his children and the outdoors especially gardens. Survivors include Sons; Gordon (Somchith) Nelson, and Alan Nelson; Daughter, Jan (Dave) Winterhalter; Cousin, Virginia Westbrook. He was predeceased by his parents. Memorial service Thursday February 25, 2016 at 12pm at Broadway Covenant Church. Visitation begins at 10:30am.

Martin L. Nelson lived a life of faith, family and giving. He was born June 26, 1932 in Rockford to Nels “Oscar” and Hazel (Ludwig) Nelson. As a boy, the family lived in tents during the construction of their home on 21st Street in Rockford. At that time the home was in a rural setting, giving Martin an appreciation of animals, gardening and the quiet solitude of the outdoors.

He attended East high school, graduating in 1950. While there, he served as an equipment manager for both the boy's basketball and baseball teams. During high school, he worked as a groundskeeper for the Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club. He attended the University of Illinois for a short time, studying horticulture.

He was drafted by the U. S. Army and served in Korea, during and after the Korean War.

After his service in the Army, he worked for Sundstrand and then Cotta Transmission in Rockford. He was at first a draftsman. Later, after taking night classes, he entered the new vocation of computer programming. After his employment at Cotta, he worked for the Rockford Park District and the Easter Seals, later called the Children’s Development Center. At the CDC, he was a computer technician and even continued to volunteer there for many years after his employment ended. He received the "Points of Light" award for his volunteer service at the CDC.

During the early 1950's, Martin and his parents became charter members of the Broadway Covenant Chapel, now Broadway Covenant Church. Throughout the years, he served as a Sunday School teacher, usher, and member of the Missions Committee.

On September 24, 1955, he married Alice Pedersen. They had three children, Gordon, Jan and Alan.

Martin enjoyed bowling and many outdoor activities. He was a lifelong learner, continuing to take classes at Rock Valley College for many years after his retirement. He also enjoyed following sports teams. He was a Cubs fan and an avid Illini fan.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers who assisted Martin in his later years. We wish to express special appreciation for his Community Care Worker, Liz Paulson and also, to the many volunteers who offered him transportation to and from appointments. We would also like to thank the staff of Presence St. Anne Center, Swedish American Heart Hospital and Northern Illinois Hospice for their compassionate caregiving.

Memorial contribution may be made to Broadway Covenant Church or one of his many favorite charities. He contributed to American Red Cross, Care, World Vision, Life Outreach Intl. and many others.