John R. Nelson, 69, died Monday, Dec. 16, 2013, at 12:15 a.m. at his residence in Lima, Ohio.

He was born on Aug. 16, 1944, in Lima, Ohio, to Ralph and Freda (Curl) Nelson and they preceded him in death. He had been married to Sally Doda of Holgate. He then married Linda Sousley Roberts on Oct. 24, 2003, and she survives in Lima.

Heworked at Long's Marathon in Ada while in high school. After graduation he worked at Peerless Gas in Dunkirk and also at Lima Baldwin Hamilton. He then began his career in communications at United Telephone Service out of Lima. He retired in 2006 from Alltel Wireless in Maumee. He served in the Army National Guard from 1967-1973.

Surviving are a two sons, Justin (Shonda) Nelson of Lima, Joshua (Sara) Nelson of Port Clinton; a stepson, Brian Roberts of Lima; two brothers, Gary (Marilyn) Nelson of Lima and Erwin (Cathy) Nelson of Ada; three sisters, Patty (Frank) Roof of Kenton, Peg (Bill) Cook of Lima, and Anita (Tom) Armey of Continental; eight grandchildren, Nathan, Zachary, Ethan, Andrew, Griffin, Hayley, Brayden, and Nolan; two brothers-in-law, Jim (Lisa) Sousley of Lima and Steve Sousley of Elida; a sister-in-law, Jeanine (Emory Leiss) Paintin of Quincy; a close family friend, Lucy Mathers of Lima.

He was preceded in death by a son, Eric; and father and mother-in-law, Paul and Doris Sousley.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2013 at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada, with Chaplain Janelle Taviano officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Ada.

Friends may call 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada and until the time of service Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Equestrian Therapy Program, 22532 Bowsher Road, Lima, Ohio 45806.