William "Bill" Nelson

William “Bill” Harry Nelson, 66, passed away on Sunday, March 6, 2016 in Sandpoint, Idaho. Private family services will be held at a later date. Bill was born on March 22, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois where he grew up and attended local schools. He joined the US Marine Corp on February 29, 1968, serving in Vietnam receiving numerous awards and medals. After receiving his honorable discharge he owned, and operated, a hotel in the Chicago area. He moved to the Rapid Lightning area of Sandpoint in the late 1980’s and worked as a carpenter, retiring in 1991 due to a disability. On February 29, 2004 he and Leona Haskins were united in marriage here in Sandpoint. He was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and was always proud of his church affiliation. He enjoyed riding his “Harley’s”, hiking and hunting in the woods of North Idaho. He is survived by his wife Leona Nelson; his son Bill Nelson and his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, in the Chicago area.