Traverse City Record-Eagle

Archive: Wednesday

December 12, 2012

W.T. Pete Nelson

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TRAVERSE CITY — Walter T. Nelson, Jr. "Pete", age 87 of Traverse City, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Dec. 9, 2012. Walter was born June 29, 1925 in Chattanooga, Tenn. the son of, Walter T. and Georgia M. Nelson.

Pete was a proud Navy veteran. He was stationed in Traverse City, where he met the love of his life Helen M. Bright. They were married July 14, 1945 in Traverse City.

Pete loved to hunt, fish and shoot snakes. He had a wicked sense of humor, often quick with a come back. He was fiercely protective over his family, gracious, kind hearted, generous. Pete had a great love of music and his voice reflected that every time he sang. He was a proud member of several quartets and loved to sing at church with his children. He was a lifetime member of the First Church of Nazarene in Traverse City.

Pete was the beloved husband of the late Helen, with whom he shared 65 years. He was the loving father of Debbra (Thomas) Steffes, Ricky (Lee) Nelson and the late Thomas E. (Judy Guss) Nelson; the proud grandfather of Tom Nelson Jr. (Lorrie), James (Beth) Nelson, Scott Steffes, Paul (Jamie) Steffes, Amy (Jon) Hill, Amber (Brian) Schwalm, Greg and Nate Chess; great grandfather of Macy, Andru, Caleb, Iris, McClellan, Nicole and Lizzy. He was also a special grandpa and great grandpa to Josh, Jenny, Brenna, Lillian, Nora and Finn Sheehan.

Pete was the brother of Sam (the late Christine), Joel (Martha), Ruth (Van) Riggs, Cleta (Walter) Witt and was predeceased by siblings Gene, Mildred, Francis, Juanita and Naomi. He was also survived by many nieces, nephews and his beloved dog Chloe.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Tobin Fraser, Hospice of Michigan and the staff at French Manor. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at Church of the Nazarene in Traverse City, with visitation one hour prior. Family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Covell Funeral Home in Traverse City.

Please share memories with the family at www. Covellfuneralhomes.com. Memorial Contributions would be greatly appreciated to Hospice of Michigan, Grand Traverse County Meals on Wheels or Commission on Aging.

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