Robert Nelson

Robert “Bob” Nelson, of The Villages, FL, passed away on December 4, 2021 at the age of 78 in his hometown of Erie, PA surrounded by loving family.  His battle with various medical issues over the past several years showed his courage and fight but always with the biggest smile in the room.  

Bob spent his early years in Erie playing baseball and other sports meanwhile holdings various jobs shaping his hard working and supportive personality.  He attended McDowell High School followed by Edinboro University in Pennsylvania.  During his time he gained lifelong friends at Sig Tau Gamma fraternity who were a part of his life until his final days.  Bob was always known as “Mouse” for those big ears, caring eyes, and massive smile.  Mouse went on to earn an MBA in mathematics followed by a successful 30+ year career at Lord Corporation in Erie.  He was honored for his years of service as the treasurer of the Lord Athletic Association.  After his time at Lord, he taught college courses at Mercyhurst College and Gannon University and was a 10+ year lecture at Penn State Behrend.

Bob met the love of his life Pat “Patty” during their time at Edinboro University.  Pat and Bob lived a spectacular life together.  The love and support for each other was inspiring for everyone.  With heartbreak early, losing two children much too soon, it bonded their life for eternity. 

Bob loved spending time with friends, watching, and playing sports.  If it was a Friday night dinner and drinks at the local restaurant, a Sunday night bowling league, a couples golf league, or simply on the sidelines of an event.  His love for athletics was deep.  If it was a sporting event, he loved it.  It did not matter if it was a pro team like the Cleveland Indians, his passion for Penn State or even running the first down markers at the local high school games, he loved a “game.”  His real love of sport was watching his kids and grandkids play anything on the schedule.  He did not talk about it much, but he was a sneaky (mouse like) great athlete.  He played competitive travel softball for many years, ran the Marine Corps Marathon, and continued his love of baseball, tennis, and golf throughout his life. 

Ultimately he will be remembered as a family man.  He never wanted a “gift” and preferred a picture of his family for a memory.  He never liked giving gift cards as he thought it was too impersonal, and he always focused on what could be the best outcome for his family.  He raised two kids, and always enjoyed his 5 grandchildren.  Bob and Patty celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary this past August.

Bob will always be remembered as a hard working by the numbers guy.  Either balancing the checkbook (yes he still did that) or playing catch with his kids announcing “hit me in the numbers” so you had the perfect target for the returning throw.  His smile will always be remembered lighting up a room and his soft and caring voice stating “everything will be ok” regardless of the situation.  He is remembered as the loving husband, best father, caring grandfather, and inspiration to anyone who met him. 

Bob is survived by his amazing and strong wife Patricia, daughter Deb (Nelson) Consiglio and her family (Eric, son-in-law, Abby, granddaughter, Emily, granddaughter), Chris Nelson and his family (Sandy, daughter-in-law, Blake, grandson, Charlie, granddaughter, Max, grandson), sister Pat Angerer and her family (Richard, brother-in-law and five children, Rick Angerer, Vicki Manning, Linda Demilt, Jeff Angerer, and Susan White.)

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents Rose and John Nelson, son Mark, daughter Julie, and in-laws Charles and Anabel McMullen. 

Bob’s family will honor him and celebrate his life with only immediate family, but in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) 9591 Waples St. San Diego, CA 92121.  His love of sports and compassion is a perfect match with this group. https://www.challengedathletes.org High costs of adaptive sports equipment and lack of resources should not keep individuals with physical challenges from being active.  

Private arrangements are entrusted to Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Service Inc. West Ridge 3801 W. Ridge Road, Erie. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Send Condolences to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com.