Carl Robert“Bob” Nelson died Monday, Oct. 19. He was 82.

Bob was raised on the family farm in New Bedford, Ill., and graduated from the University of Illinois. He then had a successful 35-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, retiring from Alcon Laboratories in 1996.

Bob was involved in many areas of the community. Those areas where he was an active board member included Gun Lake Protective Association, Barry County Community Mental Health, Commission on Aging for Barry County and Southwest Michigan Behavior Health.

One of the most important parts of Bob’s life was his faith. He was an active member at Gun Lake Community Church.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judith A. Nelson; children Robert F. (Kristine) Nelson, James C. (Mary Pat) Nelson; grandchildren Scott Nelson, Alex Nelson, Carole Anne Nelson, Sean (Caitlin) Nelson, Catherine Nelson, Paige (Jack) Purvis, Sarah Nelson; brother, Richard (Ka) Nelson; sisters Nyla (Roy) Wachter, Nancy (Jim) Hopkins, Norita (Steve) Cunningham; sister-in-law, Kelly Nelson; and many extended family and friends.

He was born Dec. 5, 1937, in Princeton, Illinois to Carl and Mabel Nelson, who preceded him in death along with his brother, Ronald Nelson.

Visitation with the family will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Gun Lake Community Church, 12200 W M 179 Hwy, Wayland. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Gun Lake Community Church with visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Pastor Dan Beyer will officiate. Bob will be laid to rest at Robbins Cemetery.

In memory of Bob and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Barry County Community Mental Health.