Raymond York Nelson

Raymond York Nelson, 78, passed away on November 30, 2017 surrounded by his wife and children. Ray was born in Racine to the late Edward and Viola (York) Nelson on April 25, 1939. He was united in marriage to Alice Weaver on April 23, 1966 at Holy Communion Lutheran Church in Racine, where he was a lifetime member. Ray served as a reservist in the US Army for 6 years. Ray was employed as a line maintainer at US Can (formerly Continental Can) retiring after thirty-two years. For thirteen years following retirement, he was a shuttle driver for SC Johnson. Not only did he enjoy the driving, but he formed a number of lasting friendships over the years. Ray had a passion for cars in general, classic cars in particular. He owned many over the years, entering them in car shows and proudly winning a number of first place trophies. He was also an avid toy truck collector. Ray and Alice loved to travel. There were many family road trips as their children grew up. In later years, they traveled the world, visiting over twelve countries. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Viola Nelson; in-laws, Clifton and Pearl Weaver; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Clifford (Harold) Parham. Ray is survived by his loving wife of over fifty-one years, Alice Nelson and their three children: Cyndi (Randy) Spiegelhoff, Greg (Dana) Nelson and Scott (Niki) Nelson. Ray was the proud grandfather of his 8 grandchildren: Jacob, Jared and Matthew Spiegelhoff; Madi and Liam Nelson; and Brynn, Drue and Violet Nelson; and his brothers-in-law: Sidney Weaver and Kenny Weaver. A service celebrating Ray’s life will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Wilson Funeral Home, 1212 Lathrop Avenue, with Pastors Mark Doidge and Laura Fladten officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at the funeral home from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on Thursday morning at the funeral home from 9:30 am until the time of service. Interment with full military honors will be held at West Lawn Memorial Park. Memorials to Holy Communion Lutheran Church or Aurora Zilber Family Hospice have been suggested. Online condolences may be made at www.wilsonfuneralhomeinc.com

Raymond York Nelson

April 25, 1939 - November 30, 2017