Edward Nelson

Edward Richard Nelson passed away at the age of 85 at Valley View Village Health Center in Des Moines, Iowa on February 13, 2025.

A visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home (8201 Hickman Road, Urbandale, IA) on Tuesday, February 18th from 5:00-7:00 PM. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Valley View Village Chapel (2571 Guthrie Ave, Des Moines, IA) on Wednesday, February 19th at 3:30 PM with a meal to follow. Graveside burial with military honors will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery (6605 Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA) on Friday, February 21st at 1:00 PM.

Ed was born on November 6, 1939 in Sioux City, Iowa, to Peter and Astrid Nelson. He graduated from Central High School in 1959 and married Judy Baack on June 20, 1970. Ed served 6 years in the Air Force, worked as an airplane technician for the 185 th Air National Guard and was honored with a thrilling F-16 Fighter Jet ride for his retirement in 1995.

Ed was a devout Christian and loyal friend to everyone he knew. He loved fishing, golf, airplanes, and puzzles but especially his family and God. He and his wife were active members in their church and sang in the choir. He coached youth softball and basketball and was an avid fan of Iowa sports and the Yankees.

Ed moved to Des Moines after the death of Judy and lived at Valley View Village for over 15 years. He and his dog Jeter (named after the famous Yankee) would often visit residents in the Health Center to brighten their day.

Edward is survived by his children, Bryan (Sarah) Nelson and Scott (Tammy) Nelson; three grandchildren: Rachael, BreeAnna, and Jacob; nieces and nephews: Cindy (Gus) Rhodes, Julie Hillrichs, Doug (Ingrid) Hillrichs, Sue (Paul) Rosenbluth, Dave (Becky) Cadwell, Colleen (Tim) Grell, Don (Leann) Cadwell; and cousin Les (Val) Nelson.

Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Judy; parents, Peter and Astrid, and stepmother, Mathilda; sisters, Pearl and Carol; and nephew Duane.

Special thanks to the Valley View staff who cared for Ed these many years. Memorial contributions can be made at ValleyViewVillage.org/donate.