Fred Nelson
Fred Nelson, 70, of Kent, WA passed away February 23, 2009 from pancreatic cancer.Fred was born April 16, 1938 in Tacoma, to Francis (Fuzz) and Grace Eddy Nelson. He was a member of a pioneering family in the Kent Valley and grew up on the family farm in a house built in 1892.Fred graduated from Kent-Meridian High School in 1957, where he was involved in 4H and played on the football team. He enjoyed the planning of class reunions, especially the 50th year celebration. He married his high-school sweetheart, Alice Turner, in 1958 and began raising a family of four daughters. Fred and Alice celebrated their golden anniversary on October 25, 2008.Fred’s first jobs included working at Strain’s 76 Station, Smith Brothers Dairy and Boeing. At age 21 he began working with his father at Valley Distributors, selling the (then) popular Rainier Beer and new Ste. Michelle wines. He eventually became the owner of the business, and in 1977 merged with City Beverages, adding the little known Budweiser to the inventory.Fred loved to travel and after his retirement in 1995 he and Alice joined the RV world, traveling to all 48 contiguous states, Canada and Mexico. They wintered in the Palm Springs area and enjoyed making new friends during their RV adventures. In the summer months, Fred spent many happy times at the Lake Wilderness family cabin.Fred is preceded in death by his parents and brother Jack. He is survived by his wife, Alice, daughters Terri (Dave) Bulliman of Redmond, Julie (Dan) Corpron of Portland, Jill (Martin) Jackson of Tacoma, Sue (Greg) Coluccio of Renton, his sister Nancy (Howard) Bauer of Shelton, nine grandchildren and a large extended family.For over a year, Fred courageously battled his cancer with dignity and humor. The family appreciates the support they received from family, friends and the staff at Virginia Mason Hospital.Memorial Services have been held. Remembrances can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org), 2141 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245.
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