Charles Ray Nelson

Charles Ray Nelson, 75, of Ligonier passed away Monday, March 6, 2023 at Parkview Randallia Hospital in Fort Wayne. He was born in Lackey, Kentucky to Glen and Wanda (Hatfield) Nelson on November 11, 1947. Charles graduated from Hindman High School with the class of 1967. He played basketball there and was voted “most athletic” his senior year. After graduating, Charles honorably served in the US Army in Vietnam. In July of 1969, he received an accommodation medal for his heroism. After being discharged, Charles moved to Indiana and spent most of his working years at Starcraft. He also worked part time at the Ligonier Recreational Center, where he enjoyed interacting with the young people there. Charles loved God and had a desire to help others. He taught “Thinking for a Change” classes at the Chain of Lakes Correctional Facility. Together with his church ministry team, he participated in church services held at the facility twice a month. When his boys were young, Charles coached 1/4 pint baseball, and enjoyed every minute of it. He was an avid golfer and Kentucky Wild Cat Fan. Charles is survived by his wife of 50 years, Patti Nelson; three sons, Jody (Andrea) Nelson, Chris Nelson, and Josh (Kristina) Nelson; seven grandchildren, Lily, Adam, Jada, Kyliee, Kaitlyn, Briann, and Grant; four great grandchildren; six brothers, Larry, Luther, Jackie, Gary, Rickey, and Rodney; and 7 sisters, Gloria Fay, Linda, Brenda, Joyce, Rose, Bonnie, and Barb. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, David; and one sister, Patty. A funeral service will be held in honor of Charles at 1 PM on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, Indiana 46767. Pastor Joseph Brickey and Minister Josh Peconge will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow at Oak Park Cemetery in Ligonier. Family and friends will be received on Friday, March 10, 2023 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at Yeager Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be directed to Chain of Lakes Prison Ministry c/o New Life Tabernacle or Ligonier Parks Department Youth Sports Program. Yeager Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.yeagerfuneralhome.com.