George Francis Nelson Jr., age 79, of Farmington Hills, Michigan passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 in his home with his family by his side, under the gentle care of his family and Mercy Hospice. George was born August 11, 1941 in Dedham, Massachusetts to Mary Jane and George Nelson, Sr. He was one of three children.
George is survived by his wife of 37 years, Penelope "Penny" Nelson; daughter Amanda "MandR" Nelson (Jeffery Williams - the son he never had); daughter Beth Morland (Tomas Macias); and daughter Kim Kole; sister Mary Shirley Cobb (the late Chuck) of Milton, MA; granddaughter ArryAnna Williams, grandson Dominic Williams, granddaughter Autumn Williams, grandson Shane Morland, grandson Devin Morland and granddaughter Harley Zona; and goddaughter Autumn Andrews. George will also be missed by his loyal companions, Buddy and Daisy the dogs.
George was preceded in death by his sister Ellen Leone (the late Frank) and niece Mary Ellen Cobb-Rendell. As well as his loyal dog that just passed recently at 18 years old, Annabelle.
George served his country proudly in the Army National Guard from 1964 until 1970. He was decorated as an M-14 Rifle Expert. George loved landscaping and the first business he ever owned was in landscaping. After he moved on to other careers, he still thoroughly enjoyed landscaping and everyone could tell by his meticulous lawn. He would even cut the neighbors lawns free if they needed assistance, simply because he loved to do it. George was an amazing fencing expert. He worked in the fencing industry for several years. He and Penny owned a successful fencing company briefly together with close friend Cecil Gauthier; and they are still close to the many friends they made in that business. George retired from the Construction Union, however, was still an active member of the Laborers Union Local 1076.
George had a love of all animals and was an avid outdoorsman. In his younger years, George enjoyed hunting. In his later years, he acquired a fondness for feeding the deer in the neighborhood and would often say, “It’s better to feed them, than hunt them.” He had a passion for fishing, especially fly-fishing and would often take his children and grandchildren. His love of kids made him a great babysitter especially to his goddaughter.
George loved sports and was a HUGE Notre Dame Football and Ohio State Football fan. (Much to the chagrin of his Michigan loving family and friends.) He especially loved "discussing football", going fishing and long thoughtful discussions about life with "son" Jeff. George loved children and was very active with the St. Agatha schools. He was the Video Coach for the St. Agatha Football team and the softball coach for St. Agatha grade school and briefly for the high school. He was also the “Lunch Mom” at the school for years. Many summer vacations were spent back in Boston and on Cape Cod that he so loved.
George loved all music from the 50’s and 60’s, especially Buddy Holly. He could even be found listening to Yanni. His family and friends will miss the many catch-phrases he was known to say. For example: “OK, Lock-n-Load!” when it was time to go somewhere… or “Tow-the-Line” when he was trying to get someone (usually kids) to do something.
George had a contagious smile, a giant heart and a kind demeanor. He was everyone’s best friend and would give his last dollar if someone needed it. However, his passion was his family. He simply loved being a husband, father, grandfather, godfather, and friend to all. He will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched.
The family will receive friends for a Memorial Service at 7:00pm on Friday, November 20, 2020 at Harry J Will Funeral Home, 25450 Plymouth Rd., Redford, Michigan 48239. The service will be led by Reverend Mark Raitz. Visiting will begin at 5pm. The service will conclude with a Funeral Honors provided by the United States Army Funeral Honors Team.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared in the guestbook for the Nelson family.
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Memorial donations may be made in George's honor to the Alzheimer's Association, Humane Society, or to the family.
