Portland- It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joshua David Nelson, beloved
father, brother uncle and friend.
Josh was born on January 24, 1975, to Constance (Budlong), Nelson and John F. Nelson.
Josh was an outgoing guy from a young age. He ran track in Middle School and High School, winning
lots of trophies for being one of the fastest runners. Josh graduated from South Portland High School in
1993 and started a career in Landscaping. In 1995, he met Shannon Nelson, who he later married and
had 3 children, Jacob, Abigail and Emily. Josh was a doting father when Jacob was born, never wanting to
put him down. When the girls came along, he became one of the best "girl dads", allowing the girls to
paint his nails, play barbies and have tea parties. Raising kids was some of Josh's happiest times, didn't
matter the season, he had them outside, swimming, hiking, building sandcastles, snow forts, and winter
bonfires. Josh loved the outdoors, we used to tell him "we live inside" because he was always outside
doing something.
Over the years Josh bought many ATV's for the kids to enjoy the trails and nature with him.
In the early 2000's, Josh went into mechanics, following his father's footsteps. He was a lifelong learner
and one of the best Diesel mechanics around. Josh could build and fix anything. He even owned his
own shop for 6 years and was very successful.
Unfortunately, Josh was fighting some tough demons with mental illness and drug addiction, which he finally
succumbed to. Josh has left a lot of broken hearts behind.
Josh is survived by his children, Jacob Nelson, and his wife Jenna, Abigail and her partner, Avery Lund,
Emily Nelson, his sisters, Jana, Jolene and Carole. Nephews, Michael and Jared Foster, nieces, Naomi,
Whitney and Haven, Mikaela and Trevor Wagenbach, and ex-wife and friend Shannon Nelson.
There will be a celebration of life for Josh on October 22nd 1pm-5pm at the Lions Club, 10 Main St. Hollis
Center Maine. All who knew Josh are welcomed to attend.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com