Dean Francis Nelson 92, of McHenry, IL passed away peacefully May 22, 2023 with his loving family by his side. He was born October 31, 1930 in Bondurant, IA. He attended East Des Moines High School and graduated in 1949 and married Odella Forestier three months later. Dean worked for EI Dupont for 24 years. His passion was working with wood he made many small furniture items for his home and his family. His faith witness was making handheld prayer crosses and larger wall dove crosses which he gave to many friends and family.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 72 years Odella, two daughters; Nancy Kay (Mike) Connor, Dawn Lynette (Randy) Wicker, 5 grandchildren; Thomas Dean (Jan) Nelson, Christina (Matt) Prior, Nicholas (April) Munoz, Paul (Amber) Connor, Jack (Kate) Connor, and 9 great grandchildren.

Dean was preceded in death by his son Thomas Dean, his parents and 4 siblings.

A Celebration of Life took place at Immanuel Lutheran Church 700 N. Bloomfield Rd., Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Pastor Sara Van De Berg officiating. Dean’s inurnment took place at Nunda Township Cemetery in Crystal Lake, IL 60012.