Roger Jacob Nelsen

Roger Jacob Nelsen, age 99 of Hastings, Michigan, passed away on July 16, 2022.

Roger was born on February 18, 1923, in Fenwick, Michigan, the son of Einer H. and Lida K. (Winters) Nelsen.

He attended Michigan State College, graduating in 1949. Roger worked at EW Bliss in Hastings, Michigan, from 1949 – 1988. He proudly served his country during World War II in the Philippines and Japan. On October 15, 1949, Roger married Betty Hallihan, and they enjoyed almost 59 years together until her passing in 2008.

Roger enjoyed traveling, woodworking, gardening, writing and was an avid reader. He was a member of the Jaycees, the Elks Lodge, the Moose Lodge, and the Lions Club. Roger was a member of the St. Rose of Lima Church in Hastings.

Roger was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo Nelsen, and his brother Ross Nelsen.

He is survived by his sons Michael, Randall (Laura), James (Mary Kay), and Jerald "Jed" Nelsen, his grandchildren Colleen (JR) Grulke, Caroline (Devin) Silvia, Megan (Alex) Veltman, Amy (Brandon) Grochowalski, and 4 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Roger can be made to a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, from 6-8 PM at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S Broadway; Hastings, MI 49058, with Funeral Mass on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, at 11:00 AM, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 805 S Jefferson St, Hastings, MI 49058.  Interment at Mt. Calvary, Military Honors provided by American Legion Post 45, Hastings. A luncheon will follow at the Elks Lodge, 102 E. Woodlawn Avenue; Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net .