James Franklin Nelson, 78, Equipment Operator

He was born Sunday, September 7,1924 in Russell KY, he was a resident of Lorain County since 1952. He was a member of North Eaton Baptist Church.

Mr. Nelson was formerly employed by the Midview School System and retired from the City of Strongsville where he was an equipment operator. He was a member of Teamsters Local 36.

Mr. Nelson is a WWII Army veteran with the 87th CMB, serving throughout Europe. He received two Purple Hearts and also received a Silver Star for the Battle of Antwerp. He is a member American Legion Post 717, VFW Post 1079 in Elyria, and a member of the 40 + 8 Club. He also enjoyed fishing & camping.

He is survived by his wife Marsha (nee Neal) married 52 years, son Jimmie of Sheffield, 2 grand children, 2 Sisters Marie Boyles of Ashland KY, and Lorraine Heineman of Greenup KY.

He is preceded in death by his son Charles in 1999, sisters Oma & Cloteen and a brother Albert.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday at 11:00 am in Butternut Ridge Cemetery, Eaton Twp. with Rev. David Craven pastor of N. Eaton Baptist Church off.

Blackburn Funeral Home 1021 Main St. Grafton handled arrangements.