Ronald G. Nelson, 72, of Kalamazoo, formerly of Coldwater, died peacefully at home Thursday evening, February 22, 2024 with his wife of 25 years, son, and daughter-in-law at his side.
A Memorial Service is being planned for a later date and time.
Ron was born in Jackson, MI April 23, 1951, the son of Rex F. and Ardyce G. (Sanford) Nelson. Ron grew up in many Southern Michigan towns but spent most of his childhood in Coldwater. He was a 1969 graduate of Coldwater High School and received his Bachelor of Accountancy from Davenport College.
Ron had worked at Leila and Oaklawn Hospitals, and at Duncan Aviation in their accounting departments.
May 1, 1998, he married Joyce Boodt who survives him. They combined their family of one daughter and two sons. They have many wonderful memories of their favorite vacation site, Mackinaw Island. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He cherished several decades-long friendships.
Ron had a great love for music and was a gifted drummer. He was in the band throughout his high school years. He and his father were in many groups together, and Ron played in several other bands after his father retired.
Besides his wife, Ron is survived by his children, Angelica Van Vorce of Mesa, AZ; son, Branden (Mandy) Nelson of Coldwater; stepson, Joel (Jodi) Klein; five grandchildren; brother, Mike (Julie) Nelson of Coldwater; several nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; and countless friends.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Rex Nelson Jr.; sisters, Shirley Crass and Vivienne Rothgeb; brothers-in-law Roger Rothgeb and Fred Crass; a nephew, Bryan Nelson.
Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Services of Kalamazoo County Adoption Program or Centrica Care Navigators, in care of Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home of Kalamazoo.
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