Grant L. Nelson

Nelson, Grant L., 96, of St. Petersburg, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2014, at the Masonic Home of Florida. Born in Peoria, Illinois, he graduated from Bradley University, and was a decorated Naval Aviator in World War II. After the war, he returned home and founded the Grant L. Nelson Company, from which he retired in 1984. The company still thrives in Peoria. He was a member of Illinois Lodge 263, Scottish and York Rites, Mohammed Shrine in Peoria (Past Potentate 1967), Egypt Shrine in Tampa, and Tampa Court 89 Royal Order of Jesters. He divided his time between Florida and his beloved North Woods of Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur A. and Louella S. Nelson; his brothers, Arthur A. Nelson Jr. and Barrett R. Nelson. Mr. Nelson was also preceded in death by his three wives, Shirlee B. Nelson, Marian E. Nelson and Helen Strimer-Nelson. He is survived by his sons, Dr. Christopher G. Nelson and Scott A. (Stephanie) Nelson; six grandsons, Christopher G. Nelson Jr., M.D., Andrew A. Nelson, M.D., Ryan S. Nelson, Grant T. Nelson, Bradley J. Nelson, and Chase A. Nelson; and his sister, Phoebe N. Partney. Donations may be made in his name to Egypt Shrine Temple, 4050 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa, FL 33634 or the Knights Templar Club Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 130, Summit Lake, Wisconsin 54458.