Thomas Charles Nelson, 63, of Charlotte, N.C. and formerly of Oak Park, died on Oct. 29, 2013. Born on April 13, 1950 in Chicago, he spent his youth in Oak Park, graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School in 1967, and then from Bradley University in 1972 before beginning a long career in the construction industry.
He was united in marriage to Elizabeth (Liz) Martinez of Gary, Ind., on June 5, 1976. They soon moved to Charlotte where he spent many years with the J.A. Jones Company, visiting over 30 countries, managing international projects. The last few years of his career were spent with Turner Construction.
For decades the Nelson household entertained many, sharing joy and laughter with friends and family alike. Despite spending most of his adult life in Charlotte, he remained a lifelong White Sox fan.
Thomas Nelson is survived by his son, Anthony Nelson; his siblings, Richard C. Nelson (Barbara) and Janet A. Nelson (Jeff Gregg); and his nieces and nephews, Scott Nelson, Kate Nelson, Erin Gregg Bailey and Brian Gregg. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Lois Nelson, and his wife, Liz. Later in life he found comfort and joy sharing his life with Monnie Smith and his many friends who gave him great support and love.
A funeral service was held on Nov. 2 at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church in Charlotte.
Please consider a donation to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 241506 in Charlotte, N.C. 28224 or the United Services Organization (USO) in his memory.