Dr. Russell C. Nelson

LOCK HAVEN - Dr. Russell C. Nelson, 84, passed away, Friday, March 11, 2016 at Haven Rehab and Skilled Nursing, Lock Haven. He was born August 25, 1931 in Galesburg, IL a son of the late Homer B. and Olga M. (Hare) Nelson. He was married on January 23, 1955 to the former Betty J. Darnell. They celebrated 61 years of marriage together. Dr. Nelson retired from Lock Haven University as a professor of music after 27 years. Earlier he taught at Cumberland University in Williamsburg, KY for 5 years. He was a 1953 graduate of Knox College and received his Master of Education and PhD in music from the University of Iowa. He was a member of St. Luke’s United Church of Christ where he served as a former choir director. Dr. Nelson enjoyed golf and traveling. He was a life member of the Piper Aviation Museum. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 – 1957. Surviving are his wife; one son Paul C. Nelson of Lock Haven and a daughter Susan (William Shaman) Nelson of Bemidji, Minn. One grandson Michael Nelson of Lock Haven and a step grandson Matthew Burns of Bellefonte. One brother Kenneth Nelson of Champaign, IL and several nieces and nephews survive. A memorial service will be announced in August. Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to the Piper Aviation Museum, Ross Library or the Lock Haven University Library through the funeral home.