Tony Ray Nelson, age 93 of Springfield, MO passed away in his home on Thursday, July 6, 2023.  His family was honored to spend the last month of his life staying at his home and supporting his care as he gracefully and appreciatively, as he always did, found ways to put the focus on others instead of himself.

Tony was born in High Lonesome, MO on November 16, 1929.  He was a veteran of the Korean war and, although proud of his service, rarely talked about his experience and humbly downplayed attention from others regarding this great sacrifice.  His family could not have been more proud of him.

Tony worked his entire career as a freight handler.  His work ethic was impeccable and his example, among other things, taught his children the importance of loyalty and integrity.  After retiring, he worked at Dillon's grocery store doing carry-out where he shared his positive attitude and love of staying busy. It's safe to say, everyone he touched admired and enjoyed his company.

Tony was preceded in death by the love of his life, Bobbie Sue Nelson (Carter).  They were married 63 years before she passed in 2018.  He missed and talked about her every day he lived without her. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John Q. and Ida Belle Nelson, three brothers and two sisters.

Tony is survived by two children; son, Mark Nelson and his wife Lori (Springfield) and their daughter, Madeline (St. Louis); daughter, Paula Clonts and her husband Brian (Branson) and Paula's son, Jake Harvey and his soon-to-be wife, Tessa Gural (Fort Collins, CO).  He is also survived by sister-in-law, Della Ann Nelson (Springfield); brother-in-law, Billy Carter and wife Debbie (Springfield); sister-in-law, Rhoda Cornelison (Santa Ana, CA) and several nieces and nephews. The love and pride he had for his family is immeasurable and he never failed to let each of them know how special they were to him.  His grandchildren were his greatest treasure and he cherished every conversation and experience he ever had with them.  They affectionately called him Pap and, as a result, so did everyone else.

Tony was nothing short of a hero to his children and grandchildren. He was an amazing man, father, grandfather, husband and friend to many.  He will be remembered as the most tolerant, forgiving, accepting, positive, loving and kind human imaginable.  He will forever be missed and loved.

Special thanks to his "bubble" of neighbors who all shared in looking out for him and making sure he was doing ok.  Carrie, Julie, Leonard and Amanda---thank you for being so good to him.  He loved each of you and dearly appreciated your friendship.  He called Carrie his second daughter and cherished the time spent with her sitting on the porch solving the world's problems. Finally, special thanks to his loyal friend, Byron Buck.  Buck was loyal to the very end and held a special place in Pap's life as he made time to chauffeur him and keep him active and entertained. Their friendship spanned more than five decades.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to Phoenix Hospice and Sutton Home Health Care for their compassionate care and support during the final month of Pap's life.  If so inclined, in lieu of flowers, a donation to either agency would be greatly appreciated.

A private family service was held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery.