Clarence Nelson

Clarence “Butch” Nelson, of Waxahachie, peacefully passed away at the age of 85 on March 13, 2023.

He was born in Fort Worth, Texas on May 18, 1937 to Gehardt Alvin Nelson and Frances Elizabeth Britton. Due to his mother’s illness, he and his siblings spent time at both the Lena Pope Home and Corsicana State Home, where he made many memories and lifelong friendships. He graduated from Corsicana High School in 1957.

He had a passion for work and was always a dedicated employee.  He retired from Owens Corning Fiberglass (OCF) after 30 years of service.  In addition to his full-time job, he lifeguarded at the Waxahachie Country club for several summers during the 1980s.   After his retirement from OCF, he started a second career as maintenance superintendent for Ellis County for eight years. He took great pride in being part of the Courthouse restoration.  After his retirement from the County, he felt the need to stay active and social, so he worked part-time at Wayne-Boze Funeral home until approximately the age of 82.

In 1993, he married Linda Shelkofsky.  They loved each other dearly and they had many fun adventures. They were active members of Farley Street Baptist Church, where they developed close friendships with individuals and couples of all ages.  Butch and Linda enjoyed playing cards with friends, taking road trips with the church, and attending high school football and volleyball games.

Butch had many interests and hobbies.  He was an avid golfer, with several holes-in-one, a racecar enthusiast, and a self-taught calligrapher. He also loved piddling in the yard and in his woodshop. Butch never missed an opportunity to be social. In 2021, he was named “Resident of the Year” at Brookdale Assisted Living.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Beverly Friend, his brother Edward Nelson, his step-son Dino Martin, and his wife Linda Nelson.

He is survived by his son Paul Nelson and spouse Melinda, his daughter Tina Cox and spouse Clay, granddaughter Macy Griggs and spouse Peter, and great-grandson Elijah Paul Griggs. He is also survived by his three step-daughters and their families: Rhonda Johnston and spouse Ricky, Cheryl Chambers and spouse Steve, Gay Lynn Johnson and spouse Greg, daughter-in-law Nora Martin-Brock, and grandchildren: Luke Johnston and spouse Emily, Jake Johnston, Justin Chambers and spouse Jackie, Stephanie Chambers, Blaike Johnson, Rex Johnson, Max Johnson, Brittany Martin Luna and spouse Chris, Cody Martin, and great-grandchildren: Allison and Emerson Chambers and Asher Luna.

His family greatly appreciates the love and care given by the staff at Brookdale Assisted Living, Bristol Hospice, and Roxanne Mangan.