Ernest Nelson

Ernest Leroy Nelson, Jr., 58, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, March 2. He was born January 4, 1952, in Beatrice, Nebraska, to Ernest L. Nelson, Sr., and Elizabeth Woodworth Nelson.

Mr. Nelson attended Newcastle schools and joined the Army, serving in Viet Nam from 1969-70. He worked in the Osage Oil Field and also for Frank Humes at Frank's Service Station. In addition to fishing, his favorite pastime was baseball and for over 25-years, he volunteered as a baseball coach, board member, concessionaire, equipment manager and mentor to several boys who may not have all known his name but knew him on sight -- and liked and respected him. He touched their lives as they did his. A highlight in his life was when a new league ball field was named in his honor.

As baseball was his pastime, "family" was his passion. He married the love of his life, Dianne Heiser Nelson in June, 1970. When Mr. Nelson could no longer work outside the home, he helped Dianne baby sit in their home. He became "Papa" to lots of babysitting kids. It wasn't unusual to see one or two little ones curled up on his lap, watching cartoons or napping. He relished this role and especially that of Grandpa to his four grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 39-years, Dianne; daughter Jennifer Larry Liggett; sons Gilbert Nelson and Matt Nelson; grandchildren Lawson, Garrett, Nakala and Kendahl Liggett all of Newcastle, and siblings Helen McKinney Elmwood NE; Vicki Berry Penn Valley CA; Brenda Doetker Lincoln NE; Danny Nelson Colorado and Brian Nelson Gillette.

Mr. Nelson was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Margaret Trisler and Joyce Reed and his grandson, Camryn Jericho Liggett.
Mr. Nelson was an active member of the Assembly of God church in Newcastle and Pastor Norm Brotzman officiated at the services held Monday, March 8, at the Senior Center. Interment was at the Upton Greenwood Cemetery. Worden Funeral Directors was in charge of the arrangements.