He spoke at the 1978 commencement when my sister graduated from Okemos High
School. I don't remember much what he talked about. However, Michael Isacson
was the validictorial of tht class and I do remember him giving a very
stirring address about the importance of education.
Bea.
From: msb-alumni-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
[mailto:msb-alumni-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Mark Martin
Sent: Monday, November 07, 2016 10:46 PM
To: msb-alumni@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [msb-alumni] Re: Former Representative Earl Nelson Dies at 79
Earl Nelson was our commencement speaker for the class of 73 graduation. I
should listen to the recording so I can be reminded as to what he had to say
to us!
Mark Martin, 73.
----- Original Message -----
From: Steve <mailto:pipeguy920@xxxxxxxxx>
To: msb-alumni@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Monday, November 07, 2016 4:16 PM
Subject: [msb-alumni] Former Representative Earl Nelson Dies at 79
I remember working on his campaign in Spring of 1972. Dianne Wilcox (wife
of O&M instructor) was also on his staff.
I didn't realize at the time that he was as young as he was.
The family should be more careful with the obit though, Ak is not Arkansas,
it is Alaska. Hopefully, anyone who contributes to their charity will
realize that by the zip code.
Steve
Earl Nelson
Earl E. Nelson Punta Gorda, Florida Earl E. Nelson, 79, of Punta Gorda, FL
went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday November 1, 2016. He passed
peacefully in his home.
Earl was born on August 29, 1937 in Emerson Arkansas to the late Clarance
and Mary Nelson. He lived in Arkansas until the age of
16 when he began his bachelors program at Michigan State University. He
started his career as a teacher in the Lansing school district. He then
served
8 years in the Michigan Legislature as both a State Representative and
Senator. He finished his career as the Director of Equity for the State
Department
of Education. He is also remembered as founder of the Earl Nelson Singers
and a Lansing community advocate. Earl was a strong man of God. As such, he
carried
a spirit of joy every day and was seldom ill. His family lovingly referred
to him as jolly. Always ready with scripture to meet any need, he was the
spiritual
head of his family and leaves an amazing legacy of faith. He was ordained as
a minister and started a home church (Oasis Ministry) after retiring to
Florida.
In 1985 Earl married Josephine LaBelle and they were happily married for 31
years. Together they enjoyed visiting their children and grandchildren as
well
as extensive travel. Earl leaves behind many beloved family members: his
brothers, Tony Nelson, Herman Nelson, Charles (Cathy) LaBelle and Daniel
(Barbara)
LaBelle; his sisters, Maxine Smith, Jean Nelson and Abigail LaBelle;
Daughters Sondra (Walter) Crosier, Deane Nelson, Laura Nelson, Morgan
(Andre) Hutson,
Toni (David) Thomas and Nicole (Matt) Gold; Six grandchildren - Cameron and
Sydney Hutson, Kingston and Kennedy Thomas and Wiley and Ellie Gold; as well
as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones and many wonderful
friends. A memorial service celebrating Earl's life will be held on Sunday
November
13th at 2pm with a visitation from 1-2 pm at the Hawk Hollow Chapel, 15101
Chandler Rd, Bath, MI 48808. In lieu of flowers, memorial bequests can be
made
to , 1 World Ave, Little Rock, AK 72202. The family is being served by
Gorsline Runciman Lansing Chapel.
