John 'Johnny Reb' Nelson

TRAVERSE CITY — John Charles Nelson, 63, of Traverse City, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2010, at his home near Mayfield, after a long battle with cancer. John was born on Oct. 13, 1946, to parents, John "Jack" and Margaret (Ockert) Nelson, in Traverse City.John served his country as a member of the United States Army as a tank driver during the Vietnam War. John was well known for his musical talents, known to most as "Johnny Reb," playing the guitar and handling lead vocals with his other bandmates of the Silver Dollar Band. Johnny Reb played all over the area for many years and became a popular act for those enjoying country music. Johnny could often be found working on his music even around home. He enjoyed being out taking in nature over his nine acres and participated in preserving the Boardman area. In earlier years he spent time working on and racing cars. Johnny loved nature, adding to his John Deere collection and was proud of his service to his country. John is survived by his wife, Linda Edmonds, of Traverse City; two sons, John "JC" (Connie) Nelson, of Sherwood, Ore., and Nels Nelson, of Mancelona; his daughter, Marla Rivard, of Interlochen; seven granddaughters, Lindsey, Angela, Stephanie, Christina, Kasi, Jennifer and Sabrina; one great-grandson, Jason; his mother, Margaret Nelson, of Traverse City; a stepdaughter, Mary Edmonds; two brothers, Bob (Maureen) Nelson and Jim (Sue) Nelson; special friends, Joe Gildurski and Theresa Clous; Johnny's faithful companion, his German shepard, Wizard; as well as many other loving family members and friends.John was preceded in death by his father, Jack; and two grandsons in infancy. Visitation for friends and family will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. today, Aug. 15, 2010, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 16, 2010, also at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with Pastor Terry Porter officiating.Memorial contributions may be directed to the Biederman Cancer Center in Traverse City. Please share thought's with the family at Johnny's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

John 'Johnny Reb' Nelson

August 11, 2010