Derald “Derry” Nelson, age 71, of Elkhart Indiana passed away peacefully surrounded by immediate family on October 29, 2025.

Derry was born December 18, 1953 to Raymond E. Nelson and Lois B. Thornton. He is survived by his younger brother Craig Nelson, sister Ardis Rink, and his two sons Michael A. Nelson and Mac A. Nelson (deceased 07/15/2020).

Derry graduated from Elkhart High School class of 1972, enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era, worked at IBM and retired from Goshen General Hospital. Derry was an avid Harley rider, gun collector, wartime historian, and flight masters RC club member. Derry will be remembered as generous, gregarious and a loyal friend to all who knew him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Wally-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home on Thursday, November 6 from 4-7pm. Thereafter, please join the Nelson family at Simeri’s Beardsley Street Tavern from 7:30-10pm. In lieu of flowers, be sure to bring your favorite Derry story.