Joseph (Joe) Martin Nelson

Joseph (Joe) Martin Nelson, Jr., age 76, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025 at A Grace Subacute and Skilled Care in San Jose, Calif., after a short battle with cancer.

He was born on August 21, 1948 in Sacramento, Calif., to Joseph Martin Nelson and Gertrude Alice (Stadler) Nelson. He graduated from Folsom High School in 1966, received an A.A. from American River College in 1969, and received a B.S. in Agriculture from CSU Chico in 1973.

Joe had a varied and illustrious career: he was a cowboy and bull rider in Montana and Wyoming and worked on several large construction projects including an Air Force base in Israel and the New Melones Dam in California. He lived in Tuolumne County, Calif. for over 40 years, where he worked for various contracting and tree removal companies and raised his beloved daughter.

He was a large presence in the lives of all who knew him. Joe was a devoted friend and family member and loved meeting new people. His infectious smile and captivating stories could light up any room. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and raising animals including rabbits, chickens, and pigeons. Joe was a Member of the Laborer's Local 1130, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the Oddfellows Sierra Recreation Association, and he was a dedicated worshiper at the Country Cowboy Church.

Joe is survived by daughter, Nicolette Nelson; three siblings, James (Jim) Nelson, Lynn Nelson, and John Nelson; brother-in-law, Jeff Friant; aunt, Marjorie Stambaugh, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

A funeral service was held at the Groulx Family Mortuary and Neer City Cemetery in Rainier, Ore. on Thursday, June 5, and a celebration of life was held at the Moose Lodge in Sonora, Calif. on Sunday, June 22. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Ducks Unlimited on Joe's behalf.