Traverse City, Michigan - Tony Joseph Nelson - a man of unwavering faith, boundless generosity, and a legendary sense of humor, passed away in his home on March 26, 2026.

Born on November 12, 1958, in Escanaba, Michigan, Tony was the second of four sons of the late Ronald and Lois (Karnitz) Nelson. Tony grew up on Sharkey Road in Flat Rock, where he spent his youth playing

neighborhood sports and competing on his high school basketball and cross country teams. He

later graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in accounting. In 1989, Tony married Julia Sage (formerly Cynthia Niecly) and embraced her son, Joshua, as his own through adoption. Together, they welcomed two more sons, Jacob and Adam. Though his marriage ended after twelve years, Tony remained a fiercely devoted father, raising his boys with pride and determination. He later delighted in his role as father-in-law to Elizabeth (Adam), graciously embracing the Bartlett family members and gatherings as his own. In 2023 Tony took on his most cherished role yet, through Adam's fostering and eventually guardianship, he became a beloved grandfather to Ava, Bella, and Alex. Grandpa Tony always made time in his busy schedule to attend birthdays, sporting events, and afternoons at the park with the grandkids.

One of Tony's greatest triumphs was choosing sobriety in 2004. This past July, he celebrated maintaining 21 years of sobriety. Tony's life was a living testament to the commandment to "love thy neighbor"; For decades, he served as a cornerstone of his community, volunteering countless hours at the Safe Harbor Homeless Shelter and Jubilee House. As the Director of Love Thy Neighbor, Tony's impact was immeasurable; he dedicated himself to lifting others up, offering a steady hand and a warm smile to everyone he encountered. Tony was an active member of Grace Episcopal Church for the last 16 years, where he served as a Senior Warden along with many other volunteer positions. His faith in

God was his compass, and his love for people was its greatest expression. When he wasn't officially serving his community, Tony was likely out enjoying it! He was often riding one of his three e-bikes to bask at the beach or to get ice cream. He could also have been found enjoying a meal at a local restaurant or surrounded by friends on his famous "Packer Deck." An avid fan and proud owner, he lived and breathed for the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Tony was invariably the life of the party, known for his quick wit and an innate ability to make

people laugh regardless of the circumstances. He loved to make desserts or dishes to share

with friends and those in need. Tony Joseph Nelson lived a life that was truly "for others"; He will be deeply missed by his sons, his grandchildren, his "harem" and the countless lives he touched through his ministry and friendship. Tony is survived by his children; Jacob Nelson and

Adam (Elizabeth) Nelson. Grandchildren; Ava, Bella, and Alex (Adam). Brothers; Terry Nelson

(Laure Stropich), Todd (Mary Ann) Nelson, and Troy (Lisa) Nelson. Along with many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. Tony was preceded in death

by his parents Ronald and Lois (Karnitz) Nelson

and his son Joshua Odgers Nelson.

Tony's life will be celebrated at Grace Episcopal Church at 11am on Saturday, May2 with a reception to follow at Faith Reformed Church. At Tony's request, attendees are invited to wear shorts, T-shirts, and Green Bay Packers gear as they are able.

"Go Pack Go!"