James R. Nelson passed away on September 7, 1999

He and his wife Sue were in the midst of adopting four special needs children. Sue was going to the Doctor for a yearly physical and persuaded Jim to get a checkup also. He'd had this nagging cough. They were devastated when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer and given six months to live. Jim was a non-smoker!

They were able to complete their adoption process. To their family of three biological sons, Michael, Eric, and David, they added four daughters, Jessie, Sylvia, Kasha and Kathy. Jessie passed away at the age of four.

Jim was a frustrated cowboy. He loved horses! Particularly Paints and Apaloosas. He had 6 horses, belonged to a western drill team, marched in parades  and went to horse shows. He also loved cars.

But his biggest love was his wife Sue, his kids and his four grandbabies.

"Ridem Cowboy!!"