John Nevin Nelson
John Nevin Nelson, 77, of Harrisonburg, VA, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
He was born on September 9, 1948, and was a son of the late Charles and Cleo (Pfaltzgraff) Nelson.
John was a 1966 graduate of Lansdowne-Aldan High School. While in high school, he worked at Holby's TV & Radio Repair in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania. As a teenager, he learned the Morse code and became licensed as a ham radio operator.
In March of 1968, John began alternative service through BVS (Brethren Volunteer Service), working as an orderly in Bridgewater, Virginia. It was there he met Rose Flory, who would become his wife on December 19, 1971. One of the highlights of their twenty-five-year marriage was the birth of their daughter Beth, on February 8, 1983. Even though the marriage ended, the friendship continued.
John was a member of the Massanutten Amateur Radio Association, with the call sign N3JN.
John's interest and skill in electronics led him to various work sites, including Shenandoah Valley Electric Coop, Comsonics, Spartan Mills, and American Safety Razor.
He owned and operated a small business in which he created and repaired electronic hardware and software. His business card read "NTS - Nelson Technical Service: Custom Electronics for the Shenandoah Valley."
When not on the job, John often had unique projects in progress at home; some practical, others whimsical. He created the "Well Watcher" which monitored the water level in the family well, an online Check in - Check Out computer program, and a lighted Halloween-themed window display. He will be remembered as a person with a curious mind, quiet nature, and desire to help.
John is survived by a daughter, Beth Nelson; a sister, Ruth (Bill) Hannum; special friend, Rose Flory; and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, James and Robert Nelson.
A service celebrating John's life will be held on Sunday, August 30, at 3:00, at Valley Friends Meeting, 363 High Street, Dayton, Virginia.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater, VA. Online condolences may be shared with the family at johnsonfs.com.
