Obituary
Kevin M. Nelson, 72, departed this life on Thursday, April 7, 2016, after a brief battle with cancer and COPD. The family will hold private services.
Kevin was born on September 20, 1943, in Lynbrook, New York, and was a mechanic specializing in classic cars, hot rods and drag racing. He graduated from high school in Warner Robins, Georgia, a town that would always remain near and dear to his heart as the place where he met and married the mother of his two children, and where he maintained many lifelong friendships. It was in Warner Robins that he did most of his own drag racing on the old Warner Robins drag strip, where if your brakes and parachute failed, the corn field beyond would eventually stop you. He was also a lifelong friend and a crew member for Shirl Greer, International Drag Racing Hall of Fame inductee. Known by a variety of nicknames, and although gruff, ornery, and originally a northerner, Kevin was a lifelong friend to many, more hospitable than most southerners, and completely intolerant of cold temperatures. He had an immeasurable love for his children and grandchildren, and understood the meaning of true friendship.
Kevin was predeceased by his father, Alfred Nelson, and mother, Edith Nelson. He will forever live in the hearts of his son, Christopher Nelson (Amy), Shrewsbury NJ; daughter, Karen Warner (Gary), Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, Luke, Sadie, and Tess Nelson; sister, Karen Nelson (Lutz, FL); niece, Rachel Gentry (Orlando, FL); and a large extended family of numerous friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Kevin’s memory to the JEGS Foundation: Racing for Cancer Research. With support of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), the JEGS Foundation supports cancer research through efforts to build awareness and breakdown barriers to increase prevention and early detection. Money raised goes directly to cancer research. Additional information can be found at http://www.teamjegs.com/content/foundation. A page has been set up to accept donations in honor of Kevin Nelson, accessible through this link: http://www.supportohiostate.org/site/TR?pg=pfind&fr_id=1150
Kevin was what we called a real friend he was always there to help if we needed him. Kevin and I go way back we raced, built cars and did lots of other thing together. He always loved it when I brought the 1932 3WD for him to drive out to the race track. Kevin loved his kids and grandchildren, when Elaine and I visited he was always talking and showing us pictures and videos of the family. In the end he was one of my dears’ friends and he will be greatly missed.
P.S. Always loved to hear his answering machine message, you should save it if possible.
Troy and Elaine Shuttlesworth
Kevin, proud of his home and yard that he built himself. Just one of his many talents.
For now I'll say that there will never be another Christmas turkey as good as the ones lowered into and taken out of the fryer with the assistance of the hydraulic engine lift. Also, Dad, I know you'll be severely aggravated, but I moved some screwdrivers in the garage. I love you. Hugs to all my Grandparents, and to Dan.
Love you always,
Luke, Sadie and Tess
Grandpa Kevin and Tess
Grandpa Kevin and Sadie
Grandpa Kevin with Luke
Kevin in Austin
Three generations of Nelson men!
The Full Nelson
Kevin & Chris
The good ol' days
Amy, Mom, Chris and Dad
Dad, Bernie, and Chris
The gang
Hey! I know that car!
Always a bud-man
Dad and me at Chris and Amy's wedding
Backstage
Just another day
Christmas turkey, getting ready for the hydraulic lift
Me and Dad