Joseph “Joe” N. Nelson, 86, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at his residence. He was born on March 22, 1937 in Hoopeston, a son of Fred Walter and Geneva (Moffatt) Nelson. Joe married Margaret “Peg” Sollars on February 7, 1959 in Hoopeston and she survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Teresa (Jim Machun) Nelson of Grayslake; four sons, Matthew (Kimberly) Nelson of Parker, Colorado, Alan (Julie) Nelson of Canon City, Colorado, Paul (Joelle) Nelson of Watseka, and William (Lesa) Nelson of Pinellas Park, Florida; one sister, Edith Baldwin of Hoopeston; and one brother, Chris (Nancy) Nelson of Oswego; six grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and two sisters.

Joe coached baseball and softball for several years. He was an avid bowler. Joe was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan. He also enjoyed fishing. Joe played Fast-Pitch Softball into his early 50’s.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at the Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston with Fr. Michael Powell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Iroquois Memorial Hospice or the Watseka High School Athletic Department.

Please share a memory of Joe at www.baierfuneralhome.com