He was the youngest out of 3 children of the marriage of his parents, Neomi Purcell Nelson and Raymond L. Nelson Sr. He joined his sister Linda Nelson Adams and brother Raymond L Nelson Jr. When Bill was 1 year old his parents divorced and went on to remarry. His mom, Neomi, married Robert Jensen and they had Elizabeth (Beth) preceded him in death, 2008, Pamela Jensen, Bonnie Jensen Evans, Connie Jensen Frater. His Dad married Kay Simmons and had 3 children, Alice Nelson, Erick Nelson, Amelia (Amy) Nelson Hayden.
Bill's mom and step-dad moved the family to Alliance, Nebraska where Bill attended kindergarten and first grade. The family moved back to Spokane in 1968. Bill attended Alcott Elementary, St Pascal’s and St. Patrick’s (St. Pats) where he played on the football team. Bill loved all sports. He coached his sisters’ softball team when he was in high school. Bill attended Gonzaga prep and Rogers High School. Bill left school in his junior year and went to the Seattle area to live with older sister & family. His brother-in-law gave him a job at Kelley-Morrow Enterprises. They did production of commercial airplane interiors. He later traveled to Cypress California where he got a job at Box Manufacturing, Co. He had an on-the-job injury which required many surgeries and left him limited use of his left arm. He then moved back to Spokane. He went back to coaching girls’ softball and working in the Spokane Valley at Keytronics.
Bill had 9 siblings, many nieces and nephews who he loved so much! Bill was loved by everyone. He had a huge, tender heart and a quirky personality. A tremendous sense of humor. He was a big WSU cougar fan. Most of all he loved his family and unconditionally he loved all genres of music. He was a huge animal lover. His dog Xena was so special to him. She misses him. He was an all-around good guy, and would help everyone. He is missed by us all. We love and miss you Bill, Rest in peace brother.
He was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents, his dad, mom and sister Beth.
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Previous Events
Celebration of Life
24
Jun
5200 W Wellesley Ave
Spokane, WA 99205
