CAMDEN - John E. Nelson passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, at Bay Health Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. John was born on May 17, 1943, in Conneaut, Ohio. John was the son of the late John and Mary Nelson. In 1961, John enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 18. He had an accomplished career as an aircraft mechanic, and later worked as a loadmaster on C124s, C123s, C141s, and the C5A Galaxy. John served two tours in Vietnam, and was awarded numerous air medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. In 1982, he retired from the Air Force and went on to become an owner/operator truck driver. He was a very successful businessman, co-owning A&J Van Shop in Camden. After fulfilling his dream as a truck driver, he returned to his former career in navigation. During this time, he worked for several Airlines, eventually retiring in 1998 from Evergreen Airlines. John had many hobbies and interests. He enjoyed tinkering with cars, and watching NASCAR races. He loved spending time outdoors, and working in his garden, but his real passion was fishing. His favorite place to fish was on Lake Erie, with his grandsons. John was a kind and generous man, who loved helping people and would do whatever he could for his friends. Above all else he cherished spending time with his family. He was a lifetime member of Walter L. Fox Post No. 2, in Dover and VFW Post No. 3238 in Camden. John leaves behind Donna, his loving wife of 50 years; daughter, Gail Seibert and her husband Rob; grandchildren, Joshua and Jered; a sister, Sharon Morris; his niece and nephew, Heather Bowser and John Morris; and several cousins. A Memorial Service with full Military Honors will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at 7:30 p.m., at Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, Delaware 19934. Friends may gather from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in John's honor to The Disabled Veterans National Foundation, 1020 19th Street N.W. Suite 475 Washington, DC. 20036; or www.dvnf.org. Another Memorial Service will take place at a later date in Conneaut, Ohio. Letters of condolences can be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com