Robert John Nelson, age 97 of Ellsworth, WI, passed away December 12, 2020 at the Ellsworth Health Services.  Robert was born October 1, 1923 in Trimbelle Township to Jay and Violet (Swanson) Nelson.  On September 14, 1946, Robert was united in marriage to Josephine Rose Reich.  Their marriage was blessed with three sons, Michael, Rodney and Jeffrey, along with 66 years of marriage.  Robert dedicated his life to his family and farming.  He served on the Farmers Union Board for many years.

Outside of his love for farming, Robert enjoyed bowling league, fishing in his earlier years and harvesting maple syrup with his sons.

Robert will remain in the hearts of his sons, Michael (Rose Ann) Nelson, Rodney (Judy) Nelson and Jeffrey Nelson; grandchildren:  Curtis Nelson, Annie (Brad) Jonas, Jed Nelson, Melinda (Ryan) Anderson, Andy Nelson, April (Jeremy) Thacker, Adam (Angela) Nelson, Aaron Nelson, Charlie Nelson and Taylor Christinsen; along with 4 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Josephine; 4 siblings and his parents.

With the ongoing Covid pandemic, a memorial service will take place at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home (715) 273-4421.  www.oconnellfuneralservices.com