Allan Lee Nelson
January 11, 1956 - February 26, 2022
Allan Lee Nelson, age 66, of Clayton, DE, passed away on Saturday, February 26, 2022, surrounded by his family.
Allan was born in Eugene, Oregon on January 11, 1956, son of Lois M. Nelson and the late Lee H. Nelson. His love of carpentry, woodworking, and architecture led him to the University of Oregon where he met his wife Nancy in 1977. They married in 1978 and later moved to the east coast to be near family. Allan spent his career as a carpenter and craftsman working for himself and, most recently, for Delaware Technical Community College for the past nine years.
Allan volunteered with the Delaware Riptide Swim Team since its beginnings in 1994. For over 27 years he served in many roles for the team – President, Vice President, Treasurer, website manager, starter, Hytek operator, and parent of three swimmers. Likewise, he volunteered with the Delmarva Swim Association summer swim league for many years, serving on the board as President, Vice President, website manager and Hytek operator.
He was also active with the Gift of Life Donor Program, as he was a recipient of a double lung transplant three years ago. Allan loved being outside, hiking, camping, bicycling, and spending time with family and their dog Nala. He had a love of knowledge that earned him the nickname ‘factoid’. He always seemed to know a little bit about everything. He lived his life with kindness, service to others, thoughtfulness, and joy, making himself and others laugh with his dad wit.
In addition to his mother, Allan is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 44 years, Nancy J. Nelson; daughter, Katie Brown (Sean) of Middletown, DE, Michael Nelson (Amanda) of Glen Burnie, MD, and Mark Nelson (Suzanne) of Middletown, DE; sisters, Janet Skinner and Carol Pilgrim; brother, David Nelson; and 6 grandchildren.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Saturday, March 5, 2022, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 E. Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a memorial service will be held at 11 am. Interment will be held privately. Allan was never comfortable in a suit and tie, so please feel free to dress casually.
Any friends or family who are unable to attend the services for Allan may live stream the service by clicking here.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Allan’s memory to the Gift of Life Family House or the Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 N. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19123 or via their website by clicking here.
Lisa Lewis
So sorry for your loss, sending prayers of strength for your family at this sad time. With sincere sympathy, The Lewis family
Catherine V. Hayden
I am so sorry for your loss. Allan sounds like a wonderful person whose love, and happiness he lived will be an enduring memory for all who knew him.
Peg Schulties
Nancy, I am so very devastated for you and your family. I always called Allan my humble and kind, he was truly one of the finest people I have ever known. I loved him dearly, and will miss him so much. I pray that the beautiful memories you made throughout your life together will bring your heart comfort.
Gregory McDaniels
In the seven years I knew and worked with Allan, I will cherish those memories dearly. He was a super smart guy with so many talents. He taught me a lot , in the short time in our lives that we knew each other. I will surely miss him. My prayers and condolences for his loved ones.
Jason Moffett
I had the pleasure of working with allan twice first at del state then del tech.He always put a smile on my face and fun to work with.also he was the best carpenter I have ever met.I will miss him and remember him always.
Bill Ayers
I am so very sorry to hear of Allan’s passing. Allan was a incredibly humble soul who was gifted with creativity and a great set of hands. His skill was only exceeded by his character. I feel very fortunate to have known Allan and will forever remember him in the kindest regards. May peace be with you Nancy and your family.