Funeral services for Bobby Dean Nelson, 72, of Springfield, MO will be 10:00 A.M. Friday, October 12, 2012 at Greenlawn Funeral Home-East with Rev. Lex Fox officiating. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Thursday, October 11, 2012 at the funeral home. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens in Springfield, MO following the services.
Bobby Dean Nelson went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 9, 2012 from Cox Hospital-South in Springfield, MO. He was born on May 22, 1940, the son of Elbert and Nora (Stillings) Nelson in Springfield, MO. Bob lived for and loved his family unconditionally. He was a U.S. Marine, he was an avid stock car enthusiast. He drove a stock car for several years, and eventually flagged races. He had great entrepreneurial skills. He promoted numerous entertainment events. He started Bob Nelson Motors, Greene County Damaged Freight & Food Sales, I-44 Swap Meet and recently purchased the Bolivar Speedway and Events Center. Bob loved to hunt and fish. He enjoyed taking his grandchildren fishing and going on fishing trips to Canada with his son and friends.
Surviving is his wife of 50 years, Mary Jane Nelson. Children, Nancy Heape and husband Wayne and Russell Nelson and wife Traci. Grandchildren, Morgen and Jaret Nelson. A brother, Jim Nelson and wife Carol. A nephew, Dennis Nelson and wife Paula. A niece, Duanetta Medley and husband David. Two Great-nephews, Connor Medley and Kyle Medley. Two Great-nieces, Ashley Nelson and Shelby Nelson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a son, Steve Nelson.