Willard Walter Nelson

Nelson, Willard Walter Sterling, Michigan Willard passed away early Saturday, morning, July 30, 2016 at St. Mary's of Michigan Standish Hospital. Age 73 years. The son of the late Leo and Mary Nelson was born April 26, 1943 in West Branch, MI. Willard retired after several years working as a self-employed mechanic. He was a member of the D.A.V., Forgotten Eagles and Rolling Thunder. He had a passion for motorcycles, especially his trike, cars, building things and playing cards. He served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. Left behind to cherish his memories is his son, William (Laura) Nelson; his grandchildren Samantha (Chad); Nickolas (Carissa) and Andrew; three great grandsons; Ryan, Matthew and Adam and many other great grandchildren; three step children, he and his wife were a foster parents to over twenty children; his sisters Mary Lee and Emily; his brothers, Robert (Wanda); Sam (Cindy); Dan; Tom (Linda) and Ken (Ardie); his nephew and godson, William (Amy) Graham and numerous other nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his wife, Linda; his son Raymond and his brother, Art. Funeral Services will take place Friday, August 5, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. 201 W. Midland St., Bay City Michigan 48706. Officiating will be Rev. Charles Campbell followed by a graveside committal service and Military Honors conducted by the Bay County Veterans Council and U.S. Army at Floral Gardens Cemetery. The family will be present at the funeral home on Thursday to receive family and friends from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 12:00 o'clock Noon until the time of services. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to the D.A.V. or the Forgotten Eagles. www.gephartfuneralhome.com