Irwin L. “Pops” Nelson

Irwin L. “Pops” Nelson, age 96, of Mansfield, passed away Saturday evening, May 11, 2024 at the Willows at Willard.
Irwin was born September 23, 1927 at the family home in Shiloh to the late Albert and Mabel (Baker) Nelson and had attended Union High School. First and foremost, Irwin was a farmer and truly loved the land. Always hard working, he had a career at the Shelby Salesbook Company from where he retired following many years of service. Following, he worked for L.R. Kuhn and Sons and as the Franklin Township Road Superintendent. Of course, all these duties were in addition to farming.
Pops enjoyed word search puzzles and watching Family Feud on TV. He also was a true animal “whisperer” being able to call and tame many over the years which was easily proven by the love of his faithful companion, Peanut.
Pops is survived by his daughter and son: Janet Eldridge of Ganges and Jim (Genia) Nelson of Loudonville; grandchildren: Bryan Nelson (Brittany Hale), Amber (Travis) Eyman, Dayna Nelson, and Jenny Gage (Ryan); great grandchildren: Madi Wright, Jalycia Nelson, and Jalyonna Nelson; 5 step-children and their families; numerous nieces and nephews, and special friends: Gaylord and Betty Dotterer, Dana, and Missy. In addition to his parents, Irwin was preceded in death by his daughters and son-in-law: Linda Zimmer and Sue and Bryan Warrick; the mother of his children: Donna (Gates) Nelson; his second wife: Shirley Kissel Nelson; and sisters: Ethel (Roy) Imhoff and Thelma (Ray) Kirkendall.
The family would like to thank Dr. Chawla and his staff, the caring staff at the Willows at Willard, and Hospice of North Central Ohio for all of their care and attention provided to Irwin and his family.
Family and friends are welcome to attend graveside services on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 11 am at Ganges Cemetery, Shelby Ganges Road, Ganges. Memorial contributions may be made to the Franklin Township Fire Department, 505 Boyce Road, Shelby, Ohio 44875.
Care for Irwin and his family is being provided by the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Online condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellTurner.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral).
Jim and Genia, our deepest condolences in the passing of your Dad. What a long life he had. Hugs and prayers at this difficult time.
Nick and Melinda Claypool