John E. Nelson
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John E. Nelson, 69, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri passed away on October 31, 2019. A memorial service will be held at 6:30pm, Thursday, November 14, 2019 at Kingdom Hall Jehovah’s Witnesses, Lee’s Summit, Missouri, 11800 Milton Thompson Rd. Mr. Nelson was born February 26, 1950 in Kansas City, Missouri.
John found his life journey in Jehovah’s Witnesses when he was a teenager. He served Jehovah God faithfully for 50 years. Because of his faith, he refused to carry a gun when he was drafted at 18. He was made a medic instead for his 17-month tour of duty in Vietnam. The Agent Orange he was exposed to there affected his health severely in his last few months. In pain, facing rapidly diminishing ability, and adamant he didn’t want a lingering death, John chose to end his life. He will be sorely missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents Norville and Josephine Nelson and brother Joseph Nelson.
Survivors include sister Carol Shifflett, sister in law Janet Nelson, nephew Andrew Nelson, niece Nina Nelson, niece Rachel Segobia, nephew Rudy Segobia and great nieces and nephews Alex, Isaac, and Sofia.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas City Veterans Administration Center, 4801 E Linwood Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri; Attn: Volunteer Services.
How did John end his life? I was his best friend in high school. I’ll miss him! Norm Jones
John was a great guy in every way! Norm Jones
I spent more hours in the field ministry with John than anyone else I worked with. We had some great times. I knew him since 1981, before I was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He could make floors shine and windows glisten like nobody else. He was a very hard worker. Very accomplished as an evangelizer and Bible teacher. One time, he used a mop handle to goad a stubborn St. Bernard dog out of my car seat. Priceless! He had great love for his God, people, and animals. I mourn his passing deeply. I look forward to seeing him in a world where sickness, war, and sorrow will be no more. My wife Suzaye and I send our love and condolences to his family. Steve