Everard Elliot Nelson

Everard E. Nelson “Ed”, 89, of Pocatello passed away Friday, March 12, 2010 on his way back from Palm Springs, California. Ed was born on August 19, 1920 in Lindgrove, Iowa to Albert Nelson and Elsie Kalwat. He attended schools in Yankton, South Dakota before moving to Pocatello, where he married Neva Wehrli in 1940.

Ed served in the 82nd and 101st Airborne during World War II. He received the Bronze Star and the French Medal of Honor. Upon his return he earned a pilot's license and a lifelong involvement with car repair, eventually becoming Service Manager at Paul's Pontiac, now Hirning's. He received many awards during his employment, including service manager of the Year and several trips that took him to London, Mexico and Las Vegas.

Ed's interests included antique cars, drag racing, fishing and hunting and especially polka music. During his lifetime he learned to play the concertina and all types of accordions. He also enjoyed the many road trips to Boise and Maine to visit family.

In 1990 Ed married Valerie Saari, who survives him; along with his two daughters, Georgia Adams of Pocatello and Connie (Kurt) Kahm of Boise, one son Everard R. Nelson of Palm Springs, California, and two brothers; Vernon (Lilian) Nelson, Alturas, CA and Lyle (Betty) Nelson Davis Creek, CA. He is also survived by one grandson, Kyle Kahm of Boise, three step-daughters and eight step grandchildren, all of whom live in Maine.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Viona Ritzman and Vernice Horan.

According to his wishes, he was cremated and requested that no services be held.