Thomas "Tom" Joseph Nelson; Dad; Mr. Nelson; Papa

Tom Nelson left this world peacefully, surrounded by the comfort of his children, on Saturday afternoon, September 26, 2020.

Tom was born and raised in Union, NJ on December 21, 1941, the youngest son to the late Arthur and Mabel Nelson. He now joins his ever dear and loving wife, Claudia Nelson, in eternal rest.

He is survived by his three children: daughter Meghan Nelson and husband Dale Strawn, daughter Carolyn Nelson and Joey Daniels, and son John Nelson, as well as four grandchildren. In addition to his parents and his wife, preceding him in death were his brother, his sister, and their spouses; Arthur and wife Adelle Nelson and Patricia and Husband Daniel "Pat and Dan" Newhall.

After graduating college, Tom spent his time as a bachelor living in Buffalo, NY, occasionally commuting to California. A soft-spoken man with bold passions, he lived that life well; earning a pilot's license, traveling, driving motorcycles, and golfing as much as life allowed. He moved to Florida in 1979. With the purchase of his home, nestled in farmland and no stoplights in sight, Tom began entwining his roots with the ever-growing oaks of Winter Springs.

Tom always said that if he weren't married by the time he was 40, he would never marry. Fate breathed a quiet chuckle when he met Claudia at 39; and they were married the day before his 40th birthday. They wasted no time trying to start a family and their dreams came true four years later when they began the adoption process that would grow their family by three. Building on his legacy of helping others, Tom and Claudia would host parties to answer questions for couples considering adoption.

A brilliant electrical engineer, Tom was employed by Westinghouse and KTS for much of his career. He found great fulfillment in exercising his belief that everything can be fixed. Never satisfied without a project, he repaired TVs, computers, cabinets; once, he even tried to fix the bickering of his two daughters. He quieted one disagreement by building an addition onto the house so they would each have their own room.

Tom was an incredible cook – preparing and sharing food was a lifelong passion. A cooler filled with prime rib would always accompany him on visits to his favorite big sister in Philadelphia. At home, leftovers frequently populated the fridge. There could never be enough food. Tom always made sure there was room at the table for anyone who was hungry, room in his home for those who might need it, and room in his heart for anyone who sought it.

His children will be hosting a memorial reception October 24, between 2pm-6pm at Meghan's home in Sanford, FL. To friends and family who wish to pay their respects, you are welcome to come and go as you please. Further details will follow.

The family of Thomas Joseph Nelson invites you to leave a message of condolence on the Tribute Wall created in his memory.