John Edward Nelson "Ed" passed away on February 20, 2024.  He was born at home on January 31,1937 to Leonard and Mildred [Bonynge] Nelson.  Ed graduated from Aledo High School, earned his teaching degree from Monmouth College, and his master's degree from Northern Illinois University. During his time at Monmouth College, Ed met his sister Beverly's college roommate who later became the love of his life for 53 years.

On June 10, 1961, he was united in marriage to Carolyn Marie Zinser in Hooppole, IL.  Their marriage resulted in 6 children: Scott, infant son Tim, Elizabeth, Stephen, Rebecca and Shawn.

Ed loved to work!  As a chemistry teacher, guidance counselor, athletic director, substitute bus driver, snow remover or all-around yard cleanup man, Ed filled his days with activities he enjoyed and even others he didn't, if they helped someone else.  The longer the day, the bigger the mess, the more satisfying the result.  Always working with a little smile, a pipe or stick of gum in his mouth, and a radio tuned into WGN.  As a 55-year Lions club member, he loved serving others, especially at the yearly pancake supper visiting with everyone and cleaning until everyone was done.  Even in his final years living at Allure of Mt. Carroll, he continued chatting with everyone and attending all the social events he could.

Ed's family was of utmost importance to him, and he would tell anyone that would listen. Always ready to give an update on his children's and grandchildren's current life adventures. Working on yard projects with the grandkids and letting them ride in the back of the truck to the dump or trips to the farm with the California grandsons to see the cows are treasured memories. Many family meals were shared and enjoyed around the dinner table and a few on the front porch.

Ed is survived by Scott (partner Tass Johnson) Stoughton WI, Elizabeth Calsyn Everett WA, Stephen (Mollie) Nelson Carmel CA, Rebecca (Jeff) Blend Helena MT, and Shawn (Jennifer) Nelson Forreston, IL.  Grandchildren include William Nelson Sacramento, CA, Emma Nelson Chicago IL, Jacob Nelson Washington DC, Seth Nelson Milwaukee WI, Micah and Lucas Nelson Forreston IL. He was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, their infant son Tim, brothers Charlie and Rich, sister Beverly and their parents.  He is survived by his sister Nancy Wartick (IA).

Visitation is scheduled on Friday March 8, 2024, from 4-7pm at Lanark United Methodist Church.  Funeral service on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 1pm.  Burial will follow at the Lanark Cemetery, with a gathering for remembrances, fellowship, and dessert to follow.

Donations for the Lanark Lions Club, in Ed's memory may be made to the Ed Nelson Memorial c/o of the Lanark Exchange State Bank.  Online condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.schwarzfh.com.