John and his wife Verna joined MAGMA about a year ago. I met them on a few trips and always enjoyed talking with them. I last saw John at the Graves Mountain Open House in October with Verna. He enjoyed his time with our club and I enjoyed seeing him, I only wish I could have met him sooner.

- Rick Jacquot

John Richard Nelson, 68, died Nov. 8, 2009.

He was born March 31, 1941 in Laurens, N.Y. and was one of 11 children. He retired from the US Air Force in 1980 after 20 years and went on to retire from BellSouth in 2007 after 26 years. John was a very giving man who will be missed greatly by all who knew him.