Obituary of Allan Nelson

Mr. Allan "Leroy" Nelson of Camrose, formerly of Ohaton, died on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at the age of 87 years. Allan Leroy Nelson was born November 5th, 1923 above the Camrose Creamery in Camrose Alberta. It was a fitting birthplace for a dairyman who would one day own a prize, purebread herd of Guernsey cows. Leroy met, wooed and married Evelyn Sutton on July 28, 1946 and settled on the family farm near Ohaton. Leroy was a man for all seasons: a poet, sculpter, welder, carpenter, mechanic, dedicated youth leader, church elder, farmer, family counsellor and wiseman. Leroy had a passion for helping others help themselves. He taught aboriginal women how to repair and maintain their homes using simple household tools and ingredients. He helped run a summer camp for families who were unable to afford summer vacations. Leroy was a contrarian and an anarchist at heart who boasted he hadn't voted for a political party that had gotten elected as the government since 1952. Leroy loved his wife, his children and grandchildren, his dogs, his farm and things that exploded. He was an avid camper and birdwatcher. He lived his life with purpose, intention and on his own terms. Leroy passed on quietly December 18th, 2010 after a lengthy struggle with Parkinson's disease and a sudden accident resulting in a broken hip. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn, daughter Dianne (Hans) Rommel, son Brian (Colleen) Nelson, grandchildren (Sylvia, Marina, Penny & Sean) and great grandchildren (Jaron, Amy & Sam). Leroy was predeceased by his parents, one brother Lawrence, and two sisters Violet and Delores. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. from the Camrose United Church with Rev. Dr. Alan Richards officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Bailey Theatre Society or the charity of one's choice.