John "Jack" Nelson

Obituary:

John “Jack” Nelson, age 86, of Gilman WI, passed away on September 25, 2026 surrounded by his loving family after a brief battle with lung cancer.

John was born on June 10, 1940 in Ladysmith Wisconsin to Rita and Lee Nelson. He grew up in Holcombe Wisconsin where he learned the value of hard work and adopted a strong work ethic from his father. John apprenticed under his father as a Heavy Equipment Operator and went on to become a respected Operating Engineer / Crane Operator.

On February 23, 1963 John married the love of his life, Gena Mae Ellen Bentley. Together, they built a life centered around family and shared 63 years of marriage. They raised five daughters and created a family that would remain the greatest source of pride and joy throughout John’s life.

John worked as a crane operator for many years before retiring in 1999. He took great pride in his work and was known for his skill, dependability, and dedication to his trade. He received a lifetime membership award in 2013 in recognition of his 50 years of membership in Operating Engineers Local 139.

He enjoyed many of life’s simple pleasures, including hunting, golfing, gardening and spending time outdoors. He also had a special fondness for his labrador retriever Jenny, who was a faithful companion. John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generosity and deep love for his family.

John is survived by: his wife Gena Mae of Gilman, 5 daughters; Judy (Dennis) Turek of Gilman, Jane (Stan) Slachetka of Medford, Jill Nelson of Chippewa Falls, Jacquelyn (Pat) Rheingans of Chetek, and JoAnn (Kevin) Lewandowski of Thorp, 16 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 sisters: Janet Drake of South Prairie WA, and Jean Marie Nelson of Eau Claire. He was preceded in death by his parents Rita and Lee and 2 siblings; Peggy “Joan” and Jim “James”.

A memorial Mass will be held at 11AM on Tuesday, October 6th at Saints Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church-Gilman with Father Joseph Stefancin officiating. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be said at 9:30 AM and visitation to follow until time of Mass. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery-Holcombe.