Bruce Gordon Nelson, 71, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully on March 2, 2021 in Hospice care Residence with his loving wife of 45 years, Carol (Davison) Nelson at his bedside. He is survived by his wife, two sons, Matthew Nelson and Christopher (Jessica) Nelson, four grandchildren, Parker, Charlie, Eli and Grant, sister, Janet O'Malley, and brother, Gary Nelson.

Bruce was a graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in education. Following graduation, he became a pilot and developed a love for flying, owning his own plane for awhile. He later began a teaching career in Industrial Arts, teaching at Ridgewood HS in Harwood Heights and Dist 211 in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. He was especially proud for the opportunity to work with the building trades program, building homes with students in the area. Bruce had the nickname "Doc", because he wore a lab coat to "shop class".  He was also successful in building a  business in small engine repair in Cary Il, called Run Rite, with his business partner and friend, John Matson.

As a man who loved to work with his hands, Bruce could fix, repair and build anything. These activities highlighted his virtues.... patience, perseverance, he was methodical and he was very creative and resourceful  He lived everyday to the fullest, always in a pair of sensible shoes. Bruce loved boating, skiing, and traveling all over the United States with his family. Since much of his family and many friends had moved out of state he had many places to visit. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, Bears and Blackhawks.

Bruce will be forever loved and remembered by his wife, sons, grandchildren, sister, brother, cousins, nieces, great nephews, and many friends.