William "Bill" D. Nelson, a devoted father, cherished grandfather, proud veteran, and loving brother and uncle, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on February 22, 1947, to the late Edward and Jane Nelson, Bill grew up in Kirkwood, Missouri. He graduated from St. John Vianney High School before answering the call to serve his country. Bill proudly served in the U.S. Army's 4th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968, and was a purple heart recipient, a period of service that shaped his enduring sense of duty and honor.

Upon returning home, Bill dedicated many years to his career in the grocery industry, working for Kroger and later Shop 'n Save, where his hard work and friendly demeanor earned him many lifelong friends. A man of deep faith, Bill was a dedicated member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Manchester and he often attended Holy Infant parish with his sister.

Outside of work and family, Bill was an avid sports fan who spent his free time cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Blues. He was also happiest out on the golf course, chasing the perfect swing on a sunny afternoon. Animals also held a special place in his heart; he had a deep love for dogs, especially the Boston Terriers that brought so much companionship and joy to his life over the years. Above all else, Bill was a proud father of three and a doting grandfather whose greatest joy was spending time with his family.

Bill is survived by his loving children: David (Andrea) Nelson, Michael (Kelly) Nelson, and Kelly (Ben) Schoen. He was the immensely proud grandfather of: Parker Nelson, Ainsley Nelson, Abigail Gaubatz (Nicholas), Ashley Nelson, Andrew Nelson, Madeleine Schoen, and Luke Schoen. He is also survived by his dear siblings Edward (Eileen) Nelson and Judy Eubanks and his brother-in-law, Thomas Roy. Bill was a beloved uncle and leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews who will miss his warmth and humor.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Jane Nelson, and his beloved sister, Patricia Roy.

Services: The family will receive friends for a visitation at the FAMILY CENTER at SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, (South Building), 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, MO 63011, on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be conducted in Holy Infant Catholic Church, 627 Dennison Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011 on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. The interment will follow in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bill's honor to the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight , an organization close to his heart as a veteran.  To view Bill's veteran tribute for the Honor Flight please see Tribute to those who served - William Nelson . Please share memories of Bill and condolences with the family in the online guestbook at Schrader.com.

Playing golf on the fairways to heaven.