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James Paul Nelson Posted: 2024-08-15 21:22:37

Obituary

James Paul Nelson, 80, of Huntley, died peacefully, on August 13, 2024 at JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington with his loved ones at his side.
Jim was born November 25, 1943, the son of Herman and Anne (Bell) Nelson. On January 25, 1964, Jim married Barbara Grace Morin. Barb preceded him in death On October 19, 2013. Jim is preceded in death by his eldest son, Paul Nelson. Jim served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in June 1972.
Everyone who knew Jim knew he was friendly, kind and a perfect gentleman. Jim was devoted to his Catholic faith. He was a member of the St. Mary Knights of Columbus. Jim’s smiling face and kind words will be missed by all who knew him.
Jim is survived by his son, Robert Eric Nelson, and his grandchildren, Jack Paul Nelson, and Julia Reed Nelson. Jim is preceded in death by his brother, Richard Joseph Nelson, and sister Linda (Charles) Harth. Jim is survived by his special friend and loving partner, Anne Walker. Jim is also survived by many in-laws, nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 4 pm – 8 pm at DeFiore Funeral Home - 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, IL. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 10 am at St. Mary Catholic Church - 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials/donations may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at www.alzfdn.org.
For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com

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Gerry Saia 2024-08-16 06:42:24

I am sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I played volleyball with Jim at the Huntley park district and he was always fun and truly a nice guy. I also knew him from St. Mary's and he was always smiling. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Catherine Hohertz 2024-08-16 08:17:57

So sad to learn of Jim's passing. We had a long history, as we grew up in the same building, went to the same grammar school and the same high school. I carry many fond memories of him and his dad and mom and siblings.

Roger McGill 2024-08-16 09:22:24

So, sorry to hear of Jim's Passing - May God Rest His Soul. We grew up and went to St. Edward's Grammar School in Chicago, IL. NW side of City. We were in Scouts together and also played sport together back in those days. The Class of 1957 back then. Thank him also for his Service to our Country in the US. Navy. I am an Army Vietnam Veteran. To his families we are so very sorry for all of your loss. God Bless All of you.

Colette Fleming 2024-08-19 07:55:28

My sincerest condolences to the Nelson family and Anne Walker. I worked for Jim for 5 years, early in my career at Lithonia, when we lived in Crawfordsville. IN and when the team moved to Conyers, GA. He lived up to his nickname, “Gentleman Jim” and was so loved and respected by his team. I’m heartbroken to hear of his passing, but you should know he made a HUGE impact on all of us professionally. He was my mentor in the lighting industry, and a friend above all else. He will be missed and remembered as one of the best. We are all better for knowing Jim. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Jamie Pearson 2024-08-19 08:12:48

I'm incredibly heartbroken to learn of Jim's passing. My sincerest condolences to his family and partner, Ann. Jim hired me 26 years ago in Crawfordsville and without him, my life wouldn't be where it is today. After our relocation to Georgia, Jim and Barbara were there for those of us who had left all we had known. He is genuinely one of the greatest men I ever knew and I'm so thankful to have worked for him and been his friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Colette Fleming 2024-08-19 09:41:37

My sincerest condolences to the Nelson family and Anne Walker. I worked for Jim for 5 years, early in my career at Lithonia, when we lived in Crawfordsville. IN and when the team moved to Conyers, GA. He lived up to his nickname, “Gentleman Jim” and was so loved and respected by his team. I’m heartbroken to hear of his passing, but you should know he made a HUGE impact on all of us professionally. He was my mentor in the lighting industry, and a friend above all else. He will be missed and remembered as one of the best. We are all better for knowing Jim. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Ruby Stephens, cousin 2024-08-19 14:14:17

These are sad days. Sincere condolences and prayers for dear Anne, Rob and family. Jim was devoted to his faith and in return I can be certain he is enjoying his eternal reward. It is our goal, isn’t it?

Vivian Austin 2024-08-19 19:19:58

I am sorry for your loss. Jim was always so nice to talk with when he came to Catalog Services. My prayers are with your family and Anne Walker.

Mark Bolton 2024-08-20 17:39:32

I was hired by jim in March 2003 and he was the best person I ever worked for. Calm - understanding and always a mentor to me. I had him to my house for dinner when he came to Calif to work with me. I will always remember his gracious demeanor and care. God Bless his family and he will rest peacefully, I have no doubt.