HOLLIS- Gary Wayne Nelson 72 of Hollis, ME., lost his battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on Tuesday March 5, 2019. Gary was born on October 7, 1946 in Portland, ME. Gary is predeceased by his parents, Stanwood C. Nelson and Eleanor M. (Fogg) Nelson of Standish ME., and his sister Saldra A. Miner of Steep Falls, ME.
Gary is survived by his wife of 43 years Roberta (Bobbi Haley) Nelson, a son Robert Locke, twin daughters Tammy and Tracy Nelson, five grandchildren: Kristin, Clayton, and Dakota Locke, Alexis Nelson, Haley Nelson, his 3 sister in laws, 3 brother in laws, and several nieces and nephews.
Gary grew up and lived in Standish most of his life. He and Bobbi moved to Hollis in the late 90’S. Gary was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed logging, hunting, and fishing and had a love of gardening and farming. He spent many years on his farm in Standish where he raised a variety of crops and several farm animals. He loved dancing at Country Crossroads Dance Hall where he later worked in the kitchen cooking burgers and hot dogs.
Gary was a kind hearted and soft spoken man with an infectious smile and could get your life story in a matter of minutes due to his peaceful demeanor; he was an easy man to speak with and was well liked by all he came in contact with. He was most notably recognized by his red suspenders. He loved his family and enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He was a big fan of NASCAR and loved going to the races with his buddy Mac.
Over the years he had several jobs in many different trades (Jack of all Trades) ending with his last job at Libby and Son’s U Pick in Limerick, ME., where he was a golf cart chauffeur bringing patrons throughout the orchard and sharing his knowledge of apples and blueberries and spreading joy. He loved working there and meeting new people and making sure they enjoyed their time at the orchard.
At Gary’s request there will be no services. There will be a celebration of life held on March 23, 2019 at River Tap & Grill 52 Golf Course Ln. Hollis Ctr., ME (Salmon Falls Country Club) from 2-4pm.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com