Tributes

Today we celebrate the life of Gordon DuWayne Nelson, 69, of Joshua Tree, California, born August 26th, 1943 to George and Lois Nelson in Des Moines Iowa. Gordon passed from this world on March 29th while in the care of Desert Regional Hospital. Gordon was a resident of Joshua tree, California for three years and before that, a resident of Desert Hot Springs, California for 40 years. Gordon joins his parents in the afterlife. Gordon grew up in a time when life was considerably simpler. He was the eldest son of a preacher and he likely tended toward the usual mischief. Gordon liked a good tale even if in the retelling of childhood stories to his own children those stories were carefully edited lest we follow too closely in his footsteps. He spoke of moving from place to place and seeing much of America through the eyes of a child. He went so far as to warn that June Bugs were not a dietary necessity even when they chose to fly down your throat. He must have liked vexing his children because every time we passed an old car, Daddy would usually exclaim, "I owned one of those!" Surely if that were true, then he must have single-handedly kept the auto companies in the black for decades. Gordon was perhaps best known for his skill with woodworking. Where most of us saw a pile of wood best used for kindling, Gordon saw the potential for a Pirate's Chest or child's toy bench. He crafted many items over his life and would often give them away as gifts. And while woodworking remained his passion and hobby he worked in various other fields throughout his life. From managing a store in Fresno, California to setting up mobile homes. He always had a smile for people and went out of his way to be helpful. He leaves to commemorate his life a younger brother, John Nelson of Oklahoma City, Ok. And a younger sister, Gloria Nelson-Case of Joshua Tree, Ca. His three daughters Cheryl and Jennifer Nelson, and Stacey Nelson-Hamerton-Kelly, all from Desert Hot Springs, California. His four grandchildren, Aaron Sargent, Ashton Hamerton-Kelly, Myia Nelson and Matthew Balch. Per Gordon's wishes, no service will be held. Instead he asked that you laugh a little, smile a lot and be kind to one another always. The family wishes to thank the nurses and doctors of Desert Regional Hospital for all their wonderful care in Gordon's time there. Most especially Dr. W. Lynn Cooper who worked tirelessly in trying to returned Gordon to good health. Arrangements are under the direction of Rose Mortuary, Desert Hot Springs, California.

Tributes

Mr. Gordon DuWayne Nelson

August 26, 1943 - March 29, 2013