Obituary of Robert Arthur Nelson

Robert Arthur Nelson, 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 5th, 2018 after a brief illness. Born in Sioux City, Iowa on November 5th, 1924 to Charles and Esther Nelson, he graduated from East High School, class of '42. After serving in the Navy in World War II, Bob married Aileen Beamer on May 1st, 1948 in Sacramento, CA. They enjoyed 70 years of marriage together. After the war, Bob earned his BA and MA from San Jose State University and began a long career in education. Initially hired at James Lick High School in San Jose, CA as a Science Teacher, he soon moved on to administration at Mount Pleasant High School, and eventually finished his career as Associate Principal at Piedmont Hills High School, where he retired in August of 1983. In retirement, he and Aileen moved to Mission Springs Conference Center in Scotts Valley, CA. There he served on the Board, assisted with technical support for the camp, and acted as unofficial surrogate grandparent for homesick campers. This time was also spent exploring the country in their RV, traveling to Europe to visit relatives, and delighting in their grandchildren. Always the adventurous spirits, Bob and Aileen decided to relocate to Twin Falls, Idaho, at the young age of 92 in order be closer to their children. It was a blessing to have our father so close to us this past year, and the family cherishes this gift of time and memories. He was a loving man whose warmth, faith, and sense of fun made many friends through the years. Active in the Covenant Church, Bob and Aileen led youth groups and opened their home to exchange students, who still keep in touch. His life was marked by a commitment to service. His interests included flying, singing in the church choir, spending time with his family, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Aileen; daughter, Stephanie Lizardo; son, Mark Nelson; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two nieces and one nephew. Special thanks to the staff of Canyons Retirement Community for their tireless efforts to lovingly care for our father this past year. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 15th, 2018 at Rosenau Funeral Home, 2826 Addison Ave. E., Twin Falls, Idaho at 11:00 am. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed. To request the link, please contact Rosenau Funeral Home at (208) 944-3373. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Mission Springs Scholarship Fund in memory of Robert Nelson, 1050 Lockhart Gulch Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95066.