Thomas Nelson, Sr., age 81, of Hammond, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 2, 2010 at his residence.

He is survived by his only daughter; Nancy L. Nelson

2 Sons: Thomas (Janice) Nelson and Jeffery Nelson

10 Grandchildren: Tommy, Anthony (Jonae), Crystal, Kirsten, Michael, April and Raquel Nelson, Leslie Lumbreras, Salvador Cruz and Santana Rodriquez

12 Great Grandchildren

Sister: Alice (late, William) Hayman

Many nieces and nephews, including, Bob (Joy) Ramsey

Preceded in death by his parents; Thomas and Grace Nelson and sister; Beatrice (Gilbert) Ramsey.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at Bocken Funeral Home, 7042 Kennedy Avenue, Hammond (Hessville). Burial will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Schererville. Friends are invited to meet with the family on Thursday, August 5 ^th at Bocken Funeral Home from 2 until 8 pm.

Tom was a lifetime resident of Hammond and attended Clark High School. He was a proud U.S. Navy and Army veteran and served during the Korean War. Tom retired in 1989 after working over 35 years at Inland Steel in the 10" mill as a speed operator. Tom loved to bowl, but his favorite activity was spending time with his grandchildren. He raised 4 of his 10 grandchildren. "Pa" as he was affectionately known, never tired of the company of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather and dear friend to many. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family would be appreciated.