Howard D. Nelson

Howard D. Nelson

SMETHPORT- Howard D. Nelson, 96, of Emerald Isle, passed away Tuesday (Mar. 8, 2022) in UPMC Kane.

     Born January 13, 1926, in Hazel Hurst, he was a son of Arthur and Esther Hudson Nelson. On May 31, 1947, in Smethport, he married Elsie M. Strom, who died June 11, 1997. They were married 50 years.

     Howard was a lifetime resident of the area and worked as a carpenter with Local 423, Duncansville, PA, before his retirement.

     He was a veteran, having served with the US Army in both WWII and the Korean War. 

     He enjoyed music and playing his fiddle in several area bands.

     Surviving are four sons, Thomas A. (Lisa) Nelson of Lubbock, TX, Roger D. (Pam) Nelson and Bruce E. (Sue) Nelson both of Smethport, Scott R. (Sheryl) Nelson of Allegany, NY; four daughters, Karen K. Gazette and Gloria J. (Rick) Head both of Springfield, MO, Cathy A. (Charlie) Young of Cheyenne, WY, Terri L. Nelson of Everetts, NC; 19 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great- grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Elsie, longtime companion, Jean Tracy, son-in-law, Larry Gazette, 3 grandchildren, six brothers: Arthur, George, John, Walter, Lloyd, Floyd Nelson; and a sister, Helen Dusch.

     At Howard’s request, there will be no visitation, or funeral service.  

     A memorial service will be held Saturday (June 25, 2022) at 1 p.m. in the East Smethport United Christian Church, with Rev. Allen Young, pastor, officiating. A celebration of life will follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Fairmount Cemetery, Smethport. 

     Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany.

     Condolences can be made to:  Roger D. Nelson, 807 W. Water St., Smethport, PA 16749

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