William Nelson
Sept. 27, 1932 – Aug. 8, 2026
William “Bill” Ernst Nelson, 93, of Lebanon, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026.
He was born on Sept. 27, 1932, to Helen E. (Ernst) and Donald James “DJ” Nelson in Portland.
He grew up living in various places in Oregon, spending more time in the Burns area and Lebanon.
Bill married Betty (Elizabeth A. Starr) in December 1952; she was the love of his life. They were married for 64 years.
He joined the Air Force in April 1952 and was discharged in April 1961. He spent four years active service duty and four years reserved. He was an aircraft mechanic. Most of his service time was at Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington.
Bill had various jobs throughout his life, including ranch work, logging, school bus driver and his favorite – journeyman carpenter.
A family project was building the house where he lived for 57 years. All family members had a hammer and learned building skills from their dad.
His favorite hobbies were watching football, gardening, hunting, fishing and spending time with family.
Bill is survived by his children Gale, Teri and John; four grandchildren, Matt, Janna, Gabrielle and Lori; and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; and son Mark.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Sodaville Evangelical Church. Private family burial with military honors took place at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Lebanon.
Donations can be made to the Sodaville Evangelical Church.
Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.
Paid Obituary