Gordon Reinholdt Nelson passed quietly into God’s presence at his Toronto home on May 29, 2023 at the age of 90. He was born March 14, 1933, on a farm close to Lac Pelletier, Saskatchewan, to Walberg and Ingeborg Nelson (nee Austring). He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marilyn (nee Davis).
Father to Carolyn, Daniel (Tracey) and David (Suzanne). Predeceased by Rosalyn.
Grandfather to Elizabeth (Aaron) Fonceca , Pamela (Brandon) Speranza, Graham Brooker; James, Kelsey, Ian, and Lauren; Andrew, and Leah. Papap to Isaac and Rebecca Fonceca; and Olivia Speranza.

Survived by Oscar, Gwen, Ole (Marion), Harold, Myrtle, (Arnot Wiebe), Elaine (Jake Hiebert), and Sharon Lechelt. Predeceased by Leif (Mildred), (Doris), Walter (Maxine), (David Milne) Lancy (Zelda), (Gladys) (Gwen).

Gordon served as an Elder at the Peoples Church for over 30 years and lived out his faith by serving his family, friends, church and customers with integrity and respect. Throughout his life he went on several short term mission trips with his grandchildren. At the El Sauzal orphanage he was known to all as “Grandpa”. A loving example of Christ’s character.

He worked as a mechanic for 65 years, first at Elliott Stedelbauer Motors and then at Rumble Pontiac Buick. He taught auto repair at George Vanier night school and in 1983, he founded Nelson’s Automotive where he served his customers for over 30 years. He inspired many young people to embrace their mechanical aspirations. He finished his career working at TCA where he enjoyed the fellowship and support of his family.
He enjoyed his family, his friends and the people who were drawn to him through his vocation. He especially loved his wife, his children, his grand-children, and great-grandchildren.

He was generous with his time, treasure, and talent. He spent the last two years at home with his wife. He passed into God’s presence with his wife sitting at his side.


Visitation will be on Sunday June 4 from 2:30-6:00 p.m. The Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday June 6 at 1:30 p.m. at Pine Hills Funeral Centre at 625 Birchmount Road, Scarborough.

On behalf of how Gordon lived his life, donations can be made to Katalyst World Partners. https://www.icms.org/kwp or the Scott Mission. https://scottmission.com/