On October 13, 1963, proud parents George and Dorothy Nelson welcomed their second-born child into the world. “Georgie” followed big sister Diane after three years and preceded little sister, Debbie by seven years. Although born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, George grew up in the small town of Union Beach. He enjoyed camping with his family and exploring the outdoors. From a young age, he loved to build things. When it snowed, he was famous for the igloos that he built, which usually lasted in some form until Easter because he would ice-down his finished masterpiece with the hose on freezing days.
George graduated in the class of 1981 from Keyport High School. He won awards in drafting and was an accomplished drummer. He went on to run his own construction business. He would tell you that the best thing in his life was the love of his life, Kathy Whittle Nelson. George and Kathy met in 1982 through mutual friends and were married in November of 1986. They would go on to enjoy 36 years of marriage until the time of his death.
Life would take George and Kathy to Arizona for a brief time, then back to Hazlet, NJ and finally to Crozet, Virginia. Crozet immediately felt like home after all those years of camping in the mountains with family. It was the fresh start the young couple needed. George and Kathy moved to Virginia to raise their two children, Eric and Erin shortly after Erin was born: settling in Crozet. Their kids still reside in the surrounding area.
George was well-known around town given his skilled work in carpentry through his business, What Not, Inc. His handiwork can be seen throughout the community and even into Charlottesville and the surrounding areas. He could solve any engineering setback. He used to say “What-Not. If you knew what you were doing, we wouldn’t be here.” That was his thing, he could do it all. He took so much pride in what he did and he did it all so well.
To know George was to know he had a great sense of humor. Likewise, he was so willing to help others and was very beloved for that reason. He enjoyed entertaining, especially during the years of the annual pig roast, complete with live bands, great eats and good old-fashioned fun. These are some of our family’s favorite memories.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, devotion to his family, strong work ethic, love of Columbo episodes and some great classic rock, visits with his NJ and Florida families, chowing on good food (especially seafood) and enjoying the great outdoors. George was preceded in death by his parents, Dot and George Nelson and also his beloved uncle, Eric Nelson. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Whittle Nelson of Crozet, son Eric Carl Nelson (Amy) of Scottsville, VA, daughter Erin Lynn Nelson (Cris) of Palmyra, VA, sisters, Diane Wance (Brian) and Debbie Nelson, of Spring Hill, FL, as well as cousins, nieces and nephews in both New Jersey and Florida.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 1st at 4pm at the home of Eric Nelson (25 Ruritan Lake Rd., Scottsville, VA 24590). Refreshments and bonfire to follow. Please bring a camping or folding chair, along with any stories you would like to share.
