NELSON, Arthur W.

Arthur W. Nelson, 98, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, AZ on May 24, 2007. Born in Peoria, IL on August 18, 1908, he was the son of Nels Nelson and Anna Jonsson. He graduated from Bradley University in 1932. He worked as a chemical engineer for Hiram Walkers Distillery in Peoria, IL for 40 years. He was a co-owner of the Lariot Supper Club in Peoria, IL in the late 50's and early 60's. He was a member of the Mason's Temple Lodge No. 46 for 71 years and the Craftsmen Engineers. He was also a member of the Red Mountain Senior Center. He was preceded in death by sisters: Ella Spartin, Gertrude Nelson, and Florence Spartin, all of Bethesda, MD; granddaughter, Kristi Nelson and grandson, Thomas Sears. He married Evona M. Larson on September 24, 1938 in Eureka, IL. She survives along with their son, Eugene (Sharon) Nelson of Edwards, IL; daughter, Darlene (Roland) Sanders of Naples, FL; grandchildren: Lisa (Tim) Caryl, Jon Nelson, and Richard (Amy Pickering) Sears; great-grandchildren: Nikolas and Viktoria Caryl and Jeffrey and Michael Sears. He is also survived by nieces: Helen (Joe) Ferry, Joy (Michael) Bowen, and nephew, Bill (Cleo) Spartin, and several great nieces and nephews. Art and his wife, Evona, traveled between their summer home in Peoria, IL and their winter home in Mesa, AZ for 34 years. He was loved greatly and will be missed by all who knew him. Allegiance Hospice Care assisted his family with his care until his death and Melchers Mortuaries provided cremation services. A memorial service will be held in Peoria, IL at a later date. Published in the East Valley Tribune on 6/2/2007.