Russell J. Nelson

Russell J. Nelson, 92, loving and faithful husband to Hazel Salmon Nelson, died 5/15/04 peacefully, after a short illness. Born in New Britain, he was the son of John Nelssen Nelson and Thildda Johnson Nelson. He spent his early years in New Britain, moving to Plainville where he was a self-employed painting contractor until he was drafted into the Army during World War II. After his discharge, he moved to Farmington and continued his business, as well as being a Supernumerary police officer for the town of Farmington. Russell retired in 1975, and moved to Groton, CT with his wife, where he became a Shellfish Warden and devoted many hours on his boat to his love of fishing. Russ moved to Bristol in 1997 to be near his family and to continue his hobbies of baking bread, gardening, and repairing and refinishing furniture. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Hazel, and his three sons, John Jack and his wife Claire, Stephen and his wife Diane both of Farmington and Clyde and his wife Audrey of Clark, Colorado. Also, seven grandchildren and their spouses, Russell and Angela Nelson, Brian Nelson, Zachary Nelson and Cynthia and Jay Maro all of Farmington, Chelsea Nelson of West Haven, and Kyle and Alec Nelson of Clark Colorado. Two great- grandchildren, Brianna and Jared Nelson also live in Farmington. He also leaves his sister, Evelyn Clark of Cromwell and Clinton E. Nelson of Unionville. He will be remembered for his love of the Red Sox, UCONN basketball, and his family. He was a member of Grace United Church, 110 South Road, Farmington. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. A memorial service will be held at Grace United Congregational Church on Saturday, May 22, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace United Church 110 South Road, Farmington, CT 06032. Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, New Britain, is in charge of arrangements.