James A. Nelson

"Ozzie"

Age 80, and a lifelong resident of Gardner, Illinois, died Thursday, May 14, 2026 at his home with his loving family at his side.

Born January 18, 1946 in Gardner, James Allen was a son of Bernard and Enola (Cumming) Nelson. He graduated from Gardner South Wilmington High School, and on July 17, 1971 Jim married Bonnie L. Davis in her hometown of East Liverpool, Ohio. Together they would live and raise their family in Gardner for the next 54 years.

Jim worked as a machine operator for Caterpillar Tractor Company in Joliet, Illinois for over 35 years, while also operating Nelson Hometown Studio in Gardner. He was passionate about photography and utilized his skills to capture many weddings, team photos and school portraits. Jim was a man of many interests; as a young man, he enjoyed trap shooting and played Dart Ball at the Church of Hope in Gardner. He also took great pleasure in fishing with his children, as well as RC Car Racing and model planes. Jim enjoyed sporting events, especially watching his grandchildren's football games, and attending racing events at the Grundy County Speedway.

His laid back but stubborn, rough exterior earned him the nickname of "Grumpy", but he was a kind man once you got to know him. Jim was a Mr. Fix-It, always willing to lend a helping hand, and loved being with his family and sitting down to a good meal. He adored his grandchildren, often having one wrapped up in is arms, and was a lover of all animals. Jim will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, signature grin, and being a devoted family man who touched many hearts over his many years.

Survivors include his wife, Bonnie Nelson of Gardner; three children: Kimberly McConahay, Jason (Nikki) Nelson, and Kaylin Nelson; eleven grandchildren: Cody Nelson, Austin McConahay, Declan McConahay, Madeline McConahay, Dylan Nelson, Brianna Nelson, Andrew Nelson, Colton Ballenger, Caiden Nelson, Nekaylee Nelson-Smith, and Kimari Nelson-Smith; four great grandchildren: Roselynn McClusky, Austin Nelson, Tazzlynn Nelson, and Lazarus Curtis; four sisters-in-law: Joyce (the late David) Nelson, Donna Kay (the late Jimmie) Kirkpatrick, Penny (Mike) Baron, and Holly (the late Ethan) Jones; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David Nelson.

Cremation rites are being accorded, and the family will receive friends at the Church of Hope, 202 North Monroe Street, in Gardner on Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until the time of memorial service at 2:00 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Jim’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-237-2526)