Larry J. Nelson always said, "when it's your time, it's your time." That time came for Larry December 24, 2023.

Born December 30, 1943, in Templeton, PA, son of Chester A. and Ruth Willison Nelson (Brocious Bish). He was raised in the New Bethlehem, PA area. Larry's beautiful mother instilled in him the value of family and he unwaveringly lived that every day. He considered his life to be good and happy.

Because Larry's father was lost in combat in WWII, Larry was eligible for exemption from the military, but chose instead to serve proudly in the US Army from 1965-1967. He was deployed to Germany during the Vietnam era. Larry worked for McKay and Gould Drilling for 50 years. After retiring, he did roofing with his son-in-law. Larry was affiliated with the Petersburg Presbyterian church.

Some of his best times and most cherished memories were fishing and hunting with his son, grandson, daughter, brother and cousin. His golf game was the envy of many. Being a part of his son's and grandson's passion for ATV racing has been the highlight of Larry's more recent years. His daughter's professional accomplishments and personal dreams being fulfilled have given him great pride and satisfaction.

Kindness and humility define his character. If you met him, you liked him. If you knew him, you loved him.

Larry married Trudy Barnhouse in 1968. Together they had two children, Clifford A. Nelson and Betsy Nelson (George) Raub, both of Springfield Twp. Pappy's love for his grandchildren, Kearstin Nelson, Ryan Nelson, Denise Raub and great granddaughters, Spencer and Ren knew no bounds. Also remaining to mourn his loss and celebrate his new life with his Lord are his sisters, Shirley Nelson (Paul) Ortz, Sylvia Nelson (Herb) Shoemaker and Dianne Brocious (Marlin) Downs and a special niece, Lisa Nelson Stewart. He will also be missed by nearly a hundred other nieces and nephews as well as many cousins.

His parents, infant grandson Kaden Nelson, brother Harold Nelson and brother-in-law, Herb Shoemaker have passed on before.

Safe Travels!

The family will receive friends Friday January 5, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine. A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday at the funeral home with Pastor Nathan Leslie officiating. Interment will follow, with military honors at Crest Haven Memorial Gardens in New Waterford.