Kenneth Henry Nelson, 92, passed away on September 22, 2023, at home with his wife and family.  He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Jacqueline Jebb Sonne Nelson; his sister, Diane Schultz; his three beloved children and their spouses, James and Theresa Sonne, Jennifer and Eric East, and Charles Nelson and Melissa Piccone; and six beloved grandchildren, Victoria, Maren, Zachary, Jacob, Quinn and Viviana.

Ken was born on April 23, 1931, in Union Grove Township, MN, as the first child of Henry and Hannah Nelson.  He was raised on a farm outside Paynesville, MN.  He graduated from Paynesville High School and after starting college joined the United States Navy.  He served four years in Korea as a hospital corpsman providing medical care to his fellow servicemen.  Following his discharge from the service, he took care of his ailing mother until her death six months later.  Ken then returned to the University of Minnesota to complete his degree in Agricultural Economics.  He spent his working years with the Food and Drug Administration as an investigator in Los Angeles, CA.  Upon retirement, he and Jackie moved to Colorado Springs, CO, and then to Purcellville, VA, to spend time near family.

Ken shared many stories of growing up in the beautiful lake country of Minnesota.  He treasured his memories of walking with his uncles to Lake Koronis to launch a stowed rowboat and catch the abundant supply of fish that the lake offered.  His love of nature continued throughout his life through backpacking, camping, bird watching and visiting beautiful places throughout the United States and abroad.

He imparted his many skills and interests upon his family.  His hobbies included scroll sawing, family tree, cooking, volunteer work, as well as being the ultimate handyman.  Ken was always a consummate learner.  His interests were never limited but his favorites were WW2 history, current events, literature, world philosophies, theater and music.  If a family member ever had questions or concerns, he would unfailingly have the latest answers in their email first thing the next morning.

A military funeral honors and committal service will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado on Friday, October 27th, 11:00AM.

Arrangements By: Lyles Funeral Service, Serving Northern VA, Eric S. Lyles Director, Lic. VA, MD & DC, 1-800-388-1913. www.lylesfuneralservice.net