James D. "Jim" Nelson's Obituary
James “Jim” Dennis Nelson, 79, of Rockford, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026. Born on February 19, 1946, he was the son of Howard and Marian (Gilbert) Nelson of Greenville, MI, and was a treasured husband, father, and grandfather.
Jim was raised in Greenville, MI, graduating from Greenville High School in 1965. After working for a short time, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy, where he proudly served for four years, including during the Vietnam War. Following his time in the Navy, Jim worked for the State of Michigan Department of Corrections until his retirement, which he followed up with another decade working for the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department.
Jim married his devoted wife of 48 years, Ruth (Kyle) Nelson, on April 16, 1977. They settled in Montague, MI, where they built a loving and happy home with their two children, Jason and Jennifer. Jim was always very active and supportive of his kids athletic and musical endeavors throughout their school years, volunteering much of his time with booster clubs and rarely missing a game or concert. He also enjoyed years of serving several area United Methodist Churches in various roles. Jim was an extraordinarily hard-working man, both professionally and personally. He loved many things, including sailing, grilling, traveling, Corvettes, and puttering around the yard.
Jim is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruth; son Jason (Kathryne) Nelson of Lake Bluff, IL, daughter Jennifer (Brendan) Rabb of Lowell, MI; grandchildren, Caleb, Felicity and Ethan Nelson, and Amelia, Hannah, Caroline and Lucy Rabb; sister Marilyn Nelson, brother Frank Nelson and sister-in-law RuthAnn Spira. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Marian Nelson; brother Wayne Nelson; mother and father-in-law Norman and Sena Kyle; and sister-in-law Janice Hope.
A Memorial Service for Jim will be held 2:00 PM Monday, January 12, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Sunday, January 11, 2026 at the funeral home as well. He will be laid to rest in Reeman Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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