Leonard Nelson

Leonard Nelson, affectionately known as "Pops," was born on October 29, 1946, to Paul Gilbert Nelson and Mary Louise (Sloan) Nelson in Cameron, Missouri. He passed away on July 25, 2026, in Derby, Kansas.

Leonard grew up working on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work at a young age. Those lessons stayed with him throughout his life.

At just 17 years old, Leonard joined the United States Air Force. He proudly served for 20 years, beginning in October 1964. During his military career, he worked as an aircraft mechanic and eventually became a Branch Chief before retiring from the Air Force in 1985.

After his military service, Leonard continued doing what he knew best. He worked for Boeing, Collins Avionics, and later Boeing/Spirit AeroSystems until his retirement in 2010.

Leonard loved being outside and was happiest when he was active. Whether he was playing in a summer softball league, umpiring games, or cheering from the sidelines while coaching his grandchildren's teams, he loved sports and the people they brought together. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play and never missed an opportunity to support them.

In 2012, Leonard was diagnosed with cancer. For the next 15 years, he faced every challenge with quiet strength and determination, never letting his illness define him.

More than anything, Leonard loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with them, making memories, and simply being together. He was dependable, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand. His love, guidance, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Leonard is survived by his wife, Debora Nelson; children, Clifton (Robyn) Nelson, Timothy (Ashtin) Nelson, Amy (Mark) Meek, and Emily (Logan) Juaire; grandchildren, Shilo, Brett, Blaine, Colten, Aleesa, Jon, Maddy, Remington, Kennedy, and Chandlyr; great-grandchildren, Evelyn, Griffin, and Baby Wervin on the way; siblings, Paula (Ward) Way, Reed (Rita) Nelson, and Pam Stigall.

He was preceded in by, his parents and his brother, Cliff Nelson.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 31st, 2026 at South Rock Christian Church 900 S Rock Rd, Derby, KS 67037.  Livestream link: TBD

Private family burial to take place at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Victory in the Valley.