Arthur Neilson

Devoted husband and father, retired mechanical designer, always helped everyone

Arthur (Artie) Neilson, 79, passed away on May 21, 2016, of complications from gallbladder cancer.

Son of Arthur N. and Margaret (Gilhooley) Neilson, he was born in Brooklyn, came to Staten island in 1943, and lived in Travis and Willowbrook.

He was one of six children, Philip (Glenda), Robert (Gloria), Catherine Magdalen (Patrick), Frank and Margaret. He was the brother-in-law of Vinette (Cotter) and Frank Wells, and also survived by many nieces and nephews. Married to Noreen (Cotter) for 47 years, he was the father of John.

He graduated from McKee High School and attended the former S.I. Community College and Pace University.

He worked at Foster Wheeler American Electric Power and Lockwood Green. He retired as senior mechanical designer with Werner, Pfliederer, Krupp Corp. He also was a professional race car driver (ARA member), raced motorcycles, and got his pilot's license at 16.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and helping his wife in church where she is music minister at St. Ann's. He was extremely proud of her talents, as well as the musical talents of his son, John "Johnny Neilson." Arthur and John both enjoyed exercising together.

Arthur developed the Gilhooley method, which uses complicated bio-mechanical-kinesiological tricks which he used for body stretches, self-defense, dynamic tension, exercises, and curing his sciatica.

Viewing is Tuesday, May 24, 2016, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Virginia Funeral Chapel. Funeral Mass is Wednesday, May 25, at 10 a.m. at St. Ann's Church.

Virginia Funeral Chapel

1707 Hylan Blvd.

Staten Island, NY 10305

(718) 987-2828Arrangements under the direction of Virginia Funeral Chapel, Staten Island, NY.