Rey Palmer Nelson

Rey Nelson ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation - Garden Chapel on Mar. 5, 2026.Rey Palmer Nelson, 104, was born July 7, 1921, in Tucson, Arizona, and passed away peacefully on February 24, in his home in Mesa, with his family. Rey honorably served in the United States Army during World War II. While stationed in Italy, he was wounded in combat and was awarded the Purple Heart.He was preceded in death by his sweetheart, Aurelia Nelson of 72 years; his son, Rey Nelson Jr.; his parents, Hyrum Vance Nelson and Chloe Amelia Palmer Nelson; 11 brothers and sisters; a son-in-law; 2 grandsons Jared and J.J; great-grandson Shane; and great-great grandson Tate.Rey is survived by his sons, Jim (Carolynne) and Jeff (Liesa); and his daughters Nadine Crandall (Clifford) and Judith Michael (Gary, deceased); and one brother Donovan Nelson. At last count there were 220 family members, including children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.Rey loved any outdoor activities including sports, hunting, and fishing. He loved spending time at their family cabin in Greer in the summer with his sweetheart sitting on the porch feeding the hummingbirds, watching the squirrels and other wild game such as deer, rabbits, and birds of all kinds including blue jays, robins, finches, ravens, crows, and more that would visit their property. At night there was the occasional bear and raccoon rummaging for scraps on the porch. He loved driving his Rhino on every road, small path, or one he would create through and across the forest in Greer.Mostly, he loved his family and family reunions. He loved his Heavenly Father and the Savior and was a lifelong active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.