Allen Charles Nelson, a lifelong resident of Fairhope, Alabama passed away Monday, April 17, 2023, at the age of 62.
Allen was born in the Jordan Clinic and raised with his brothers and sister in Fairhope. His father died when he was young and life was hard for the family but the little house his dad left them was full of laughter, and his days were filled with fishing, baseball and bike riding.
He left high school early and one day he packed his duffle bag and hitchhiked to Houma, Louisiana and picked up work as a deckhand on a tugboat. From then on it was the sailor’s life for him. His most prized achievement was obtaining his master’s license and becoming a Captain.
Later on, he traded the offshore and out of town life for local work so he could be home to raise his children full time. And raise them he did. From coaching teams and hauling friends, to driving lessons and dancing at weddings. The highlight of his life was the birth of his granddaughter, they were best friends.
He provided for his family and as it turned out for so many others. His hands were rough and calloused from a lifetime of hard work, but his touch was soft and gentle.
Everyone in Allen’s life knew him for his humor and generous lighthearted nature. He made life fun.
Allen was preceded in death by his daughter, Shannon Nelson Garcia and his brother, Jenkins Nelson III.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Nelson of Fairhope; daughter, Staci Diane Nelson (Allan Finch); grandchildren, Ella Finch, Sadey Vrtacnik, Hannah Arns and Adriana Finch; brother, Tommy Nelson (Sherry); sister, Susan Nelson-Walsh (Jim) and son-in-law, Carl Garcia; sister-in-law Ashley W. Turbeville (Mark) other relatives and many friends.
Honorary Pallbearers are Tricia Johnson, Richard Moon Jones, Jimmy Carnley, Captain Chris Eberly and Captain Paul Eberly
A celebration of Allen’s life was held Saturday, April 29, 2023, at 2:00 pm in the chapel of Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home, Fairhope, with Dr. Jerry Henry officiating the service. Visitation began at 1:00 pm.
Donations can be made to Help Our State Parks Fund (H.O.S.P), Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola, FL 32507
