Gerald R. Nielsen Obituary (1951 - 2015)

Gerald Robert Nielsen, age 63, of Trufant, passed away early Monday morning, September 14, 2015 at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. The son of Octa & Elda (Osgood) Nielsen, he was born on December 2, 1951 in Greenville. A skilled craftsman, Gerald worked for over 25 years for his brother, Al, at Nielsen Construction. Blessed with a green thumb, Gerald was also an avid gardener, enjoyed listening to his police scanner, and was a NASCAR fan. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Carolyn Nielsen; and a sister-in-law, Karla Nielsen. Surviving are his brother, Al & Maxine Nielsen of Trufant; three nephews, Mike & Barb Nielsen of Greenville, Dan Nielsen and Kim Kalchik of Trufant, and Ron & Lisa Nielsen of Howard City; seven great nieces and nephews; and his ever faithful canine companion, Ruffy. Visitation is from 7-8 p.m. on Thursday at Christiansen Cremation & Funeral Care, 511 S. Franklin Street, Greenville, where envelopes for memorial contributions will be available. Private family services will be held and burial will take place at Little Denmark Cemetery in Gowen.