Bruce Richard Nelson Sr.

He was born on November 5, 1937 in Lansing, MI, and was lovingly raised by his parents, Lee and Dorothy (Cranston) Nelson. His family resided in Michigan for most of his childhood, but he graduated from Hodgesville High School in Kentucky, in 1955.

Bruce served in the Air Force from May 31, 1955 until his honorable discharge on February 23, 1967. While in the military, Bruce married Sylvia Contantance Cheatham on December 21, 1957 and they were blessed with five children, Bruce Jr., Julie, Lori, Bonnie Jo, and Wade.

On June 21, 1980, Bruce married Colleen Marie Cummings in Ludington Park, Escanaba. This union blessed Bruce with two more sons, Lee K. and Boyd S. “Buddy”.

Following his years in the service, Bruce worked at multiple radio stations in Kentucky, including WOMI and WVJS/WSTO. He returned to Michigan in 1972 and was a well-known radio personality for WDBC, WBDN, and WCHT/WGLQ, retiring in 1993.

Bruce loved fishing, reading books, listening to music, and going to camp with his friend, Hank Mroczkowski. He also cherished the memories of meeting up with his parents at their family camp.

Bruce is survived by his children, Bruce Nelson of Alexandria, KY, Julie Hurkmans of Summerville, SC, Lori (Robert) Hayden of Owensboro, KY, Bonnie (Robbie) Bradley of Calhoun, KY, Lee K. (Kristy) Nelson of Escanaba, and Boyd (Tonia) Nelson of Escanaba; grandchildren, Brandi Bratcher, Jennifer Roberts , E.J. Benningfield, Shanelle Hayden, Chris Nelson, Ashley Solis, Debi Haley, Cassie Stevens, Brittany Nelson, Collin Nelson, and Hannah Nelson.; 19 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren; and his dog, Niko.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Wade William Nelson in 2020; daughter in law, Lisa Kerr in 2024; son in law, Tony Hurkmans in 2021; and brother, Russell Wade Nelson in 2011.

In keeping with Bruce’s wishes, no services will be held.

The family would like to thank all the staff at DJ Jacobetti Home for Veterans for the compassionate care given to Bruce.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.