Robert Dean Nelson

October 28, 1941 - November 20, 2020

Robert (Bob) Nelson, 79, retired US Navy Chief Petty Officer (AKC), reported for his final duty assignment on November 20, 2020. Although his commitment to his country was of great importance, nothing was more important to him than his family. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. Bob was born in Lawrence, KS on October 28, 1941, to Truman and Charlotte Nelson. He married the love of his life, Marjorie Anderson, on June 9, 1961. Shortly after they were married, Bob joined the US Navy and proudly served his country for 20 years with Marjorie by his side. Together, they built a beautiful family, which was always Bob’s greatest source of pride. After retiring from the Navy, Bob took a job with Vought Aircraft, where he spent another 20 years before finally retiring to enjoy his hobbies. Bob always enjoyed a day on the golf course with his many golf buddies, but also loved fishing and tinkering around the house. He wasn’t one to remain idle, but if there was a Kansas Jayhawks basketball game on TV, he just might settle into his recliner to cheer them on. Bob’s incredible work ethic, sense of humor, kindness and patience are the foundations of the legacy that he has left for his family, and an inspiration to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Bob is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marjorie Nelson; children Dawn Nordeen (Brett), Debbie Foster (Brad), Mike Nelson (Krisann); grandchildren Kenny Gustafson (Kaylyn ), Jessica Nordeen, J.D. Nordeen, Rachel Page, Allison Page, Preston Page, Briana Tolson (Brandon), Collin Nelson: great grandson Barrett Gustafson; and brother Bill Nelson (Jean). In lieu of flowers, please send a donation the charity of your choice.