Robert “Bob” Andrew Nelson, 78, of Holmen, died July 2, 2015 at his home from complications of COPD. Bob was born September 25, 1936, near West Salem, to Clarence and Alice (Anderson) Nelson. The family moved to a farm near Galesville when Bob was 5 and he grew up there.

He served in the US Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma for 2 years.

Bob was united in marriage to Patsy McCoy on June 14, 1969.

Bob worked for over forty years as a farm equipment mechanic at Galesville Implement and later at Evans Implement in West Salem. He was an excellent mechanic and customers often asked specifically for him to repair their equipment.

Bob loved being outdoors. His passion was bow hunting for deer and turkey. Even when he wasn’t able to “bag a deer” he enjoyed the experience of hunting.

Bob was proud of being one of the founders of The Trempealeau Archers. His wife Pat joined him in shooting target archery at West Central Field Archery League summer tournaments. They also enjoyed camping with their son Kevin and other Trempealeau Archery families at the various weekend shoots.

In his retired years, Bob spent many hours “tinkering” on various projects in his garage or basement. Even new items had to be modified and adapted to suit his needs.

Bob was especially proud of his grandchildren and their achievements.

He enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers and Nascar races.

Bob is survived by his wife of 46 years, Pat; son, Kevin (Aimee) Nelson of Waunakee, WI; grandchildren, Emma and Tyler Nelson; sisters, Vivian Buchholz of Trempealeau, Sylvia Hudon of Anoka, MN; brother, Philip Nelson of Galesville; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Grace Revels; brother, Conrad Nelson; sister in law, Nancy Nelson; brothers in law, Ted Hudon, LaVerne Buchholz; and faher in law, Donald McCoy.

The family would like to thank Dr. Richard Rogge and his staff, the Mayo Clinic Hospice staff, and Rev. Dana Jackson for all of their care and support.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at Coulee Region Cremation Group and Funeral Home, 133 Mason Street, with visitation from 9:00 am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Rev. Dana Jackson will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Mayo Clinic Hospice Program or to a charity of your choice. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Coulee Region Cremation Group and Funeral Home is assisting the family.