Floyd Charles Nelson

Floyd Charles “Charley” Nelson, 97, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Pueblo West, Colorado. Born in Moweaqua, Illinois, Charley graduated from Moweaqua High School before beginning a life defined by service, devotion, and quiet strength.

In 1946, Charley began his military career, proudly serving in both the United States Army and Navy during the World War II & Korean War eras. His service shaped his character—steady, humble, and deeply committed to doing what was right. He retired from Caterpillar in 1987 as a line inspector.

In 1951, Charley married the love of his life, Stella Mae (Miller) Nelson, and together they built 68 years of partnership, laughter, and family until her passing in 2020. He was also preceded in death by his parents; Floyd Nelson and Vivian (Roff) Nelson; by his son, Charles Eugene Nelson (2006); his son‑in‑law, Bradley Jay Tallman (2022); his three sisters, JoAnn (Nelson) Emel, Norma (Nelson) Evans, Mary Nelson; and his great‑granddaughter, Isabelle Holmes.

Charley is survived by his three daughters, who were the center of his world: Terry Tallman of Colorado Springs, CO; Debbie Nelson Cline and her husband Ken of Pueblo West, CO; and Cheri Richardson and her husband Steve of Jonesborough, TN. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, many great‑grandchildren & great great grandchildren all of whom he cherished deeply.

Charley enjoyed a variety of hobbies throughout his life, including sewing machine repair, fishing, and riding his Harley‑Davidson hog—pursuits that reflected both his curiosity and his love of adventure. He was a member of Jackson Lodge #0053 and participated in various fund-raising events.

Those who knew Charley will remember his gentle humor, his stories from a remarkable era, and the unwavering steadiness he offered throughout his long life. His legacy is one of resilience, kindness, and loyalty—to his country, to his family, and to the values he lived by every day.

In keeping with Charley’s wishes, burial will be at a later date in Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield, IL. Arrangements are by Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL.

His family takes comfort in knowing that Charley has gone home to the Lord, welcomed into the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ.