Joel Russell Nelson's Obituary
On April 17th, 2026, the world lost a truly generous, caring, and kind soul. Joel Russell Nelson, age 78, of Oregon City, Oregon passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by 4 of his grandchildren and his road buddy, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.
Born January 2nd, 1948, at Pontiac General Hospital in Michigan to Russell A Smith and Paula R Smith (Millard). Joel had 1 biological brother who he sadly lost at a young age. Shortly after he lost his Dad, Russell. In 1956 Paula remarried to John Nelson. At this time, his last name changed to Nelson and he added 2 brothers, Ken and Tim. In 1959 they all moved to California, which he always called “The best road trip ever”. In his junior year of high school, the family moved to Lake Oswego, Oregon where Joel received his High School Diploma in 1967.
In October of 1967, Joel joined the United States Army. He went to basic training in Ft. Lewis, WA and later to advanced training as MP at Ft. Gordon, GA. In March of 1968 Joel went to serve in the Vietnam War. He was assigned to H Battery, 29th Artillery (SLT) out of Can To with HQ in Dong Tam. His unit specialized in using high-intensity searchlights for night operations, base defense, and counter-infiltration, often supporting the 9th Infantry Division operations. Joel proudly served as a member of this unit until December 1969. During this time Joel received 2 awards for active duty in a high conflict zone.
Shortly after leaving the Military, Joel married Gayle Wilson in January 1970. Joel and Gayle welcomed a daughter, Elizabeth. They divorced in 1983. Joel met Jeanne in January 1984, and they fell quickly and deeply for each other. In December of 1984, the two got married and the rest is history. They spent 31 years together, up until Jeanne passed away in 2016.
Those that were patiently waiting on the other side include his mom Paula, both his dads, Russell Smith and John Nelson, his 2 brothers, Robert Smith and Ken Nelson, daughter in law Brandi Shafer. Impatiently waiting was the love of his life Catherine Jeanne Nelson. He is survived by his brother Tim and Tim’s wife Barb, daughter Elizabeth, 6 grandchildren, (Nick, Jake, Breanna, Kyle, Lucas, and Kylie) and his 5 great grandkids (Emery, Aven, Lenyx, Aurora, and Scarlett).
Grandpa Joel was known for his soft and caring demeanor to everyone that he met. A hardworking, always there and on time, quick witted, with a dry sense of humor type of man. He loved working on cars, fishing, NASCAR, woodworking, and traveling the world. Joel always made sure to take in the sights, wherever he went. He truly stopped to smell the roses. While he did have many hobbies of his own, he enjoyed most spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids. The sudden loud bang, followed by giggles or cries, were what he enjoyed the most, “kids just being kids” as he would always say.
Joel Russell Nelson will be remembered for the tremendous amount of love and dedication he gave to all those around him. A man who truly lived for others, and not himself. He lived a very long, happy, and full life. One he felt was a blessing, may he now Rest in Peace with his loved ones, while continuing to be our Guardian Angel.
Please arrive before 12:50 PM. The service will begin with Military Honors promptly at 1:00 PM.
What’s your fondest memory of Joel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joel?
Share a story where Joel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joel you’ll never forget.
How did Joel make you smile?