Erling Walter "Bud" Nelson passed away June 1, 2013 in Amery, Wisconsin at age 81. Born in Minneapolis, MN to Erling Walter and Rosamond (Kossart) Nelson on March 3, 1932, he was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother Robert Richard. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Marlys Joan (Jorgenson), sons David (Claudia), Jon (Lynn), Bruce (Kimberly), and Douglas (Kristen). Bud took great pride in his six grandchildren and a young great-grandson. A 1949 graduate of South High School in Minneapolis, Bud earned undergraduate (1952) and Law (1955) degrees at the University of Minnesota. He and Marlys married October 1, 1955 and moved to Washington, DC where he began a career with Naval Air Systems Command as a contract attorney. He had a distinguished 32-year career with NAVAIR serving as Deputy Counsel for many years prior to his retirement in 1987. He received citations for his exemplary service from both Presidents Carter and Reagan.

Bud spent summers at Lake Wapogasset near Amery during his youth, and returned each summer during his career. After Marlys' retirement from a US Congressional staff, they built a family home at the Lake on the Nelson property originally purchased in 1915. In 1999 it became their permanent year-round home. Bud and Marlys entered the Amery community with enthusiasm, and were embraced by many old and new friends in the area. Bud was a loyal fan of University of Minnesota and professional sports teams, and a lover of music and literature. Hiking, canoeing and bird watching were among his favorite activities while at Lake Wapogasset. Memorials may be made to the Amery Area Public Library and the DD Kennedy Park educational programs. A celebration of his life will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, June 15, at First Lutheran Church, 240 Elm St W, Amery, WI. There will be a gathering time for the hour prior to the service at the church.