Obituary of Eric Manfred Nelson
On November 9, 1945, Eric M. Nelson was born in South Amboy, New Jersey to parents Robert and Anna Nelson. Eric would complete the family as the third son in the Nelson household. Big brothers, Bobby (born 8 years prior) and George (born 11 years prior), preceded him.
Eric graduated from Sayreville High School in 1963 and entered the United States Army soon after. He would go on to serve our country in the Vietnam War. Following his tour of duty, Eric returned home and began work at Sherwin Williams Chemical Plant in Linden New Jersey, where he would work for the next twenty years. During that time, he married and had a daughter, Lara Nelson. She would go on to completely capture her daddy's heart and the two of them shared countless adventures together over the years. They thoroughly loved being beach bums together.
In 1994, Eric moved to Oakhurst, NJ. He always loved the shore and was perfectly at home there in the salt air. His mountain bike was his best friend, as he cycled all over town visiting with countless buddies. If you passed Pier Village, you most likely could spot him on any given day watching the bands and enjoying the live music.
Eric will be remembered for his amazing story-telling ability, for making you laugh or think more seriously about what was happening in our world--he loved deeply and served selflessly, never seeking attention or accolades. He was a faithful friend and a true family man, loving times with his extended family sitting around in the backyard, shooting the breeze. His daughter Lara said, "He was an excellent provider and the best of protectors. I never wanted for anything in my life, and if anyone messed with me, they might be fitted with cement shoes!"
On August 22, 2022 about 1:00 p.m., with Lara by his side, Eric took his last breath here and his first in the heaven that awaited him. We take comfort that he is reunited with his brother, George and other loved ones who had gone before, but we deeply grieve our loss of one of the best men we have ever known. We thank God that He entrusted us to Eric and Eric to us.
A Memorial Luncheon will be held on Sunday, September 25th at 1:00 p.m. in Long Branch, NJ at Johnny Piancone's Italian Restaurant. Memorial gifts in honor of Eric may be sent to the Monmouth County SPCA at 260 Wall St., Eatontown, NJ 07724.
