Jarl F. Nelson

82, of Johnston, passed away on Friday, July 29, 2016 at Brookdale Senior Living in Smithfield after a long illness with Parkinson’s disease.  Jarl was the loving husband of Florence (Ciaccio) Nelson.  Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he was the son of the late Earl and Frances (Lily) Nelson.  Jarl was employed by DeVac, Inc. as a regional supervisor, before moving to RI forty years ago.  He started his own business, Nelson Products, and also worked as a union carpenter for Aluminum Services, Inc. until his retirement.  Jarl was an avid golfer and archer, and had a passion for flying small airplanes, enabling him to perform aerobatics.  He was a gentle soul and an unpretentious man who required very little out of life to make him happy.  His kindness will be remembered by everyone who knew him.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his three children, Mark Nelson and his wife Maryann of Johnston, and Jennifer and Melissa Nelson of Minnesota.  Jarl was the cherished grandfather of three and great grandfather of three.  He was also the brother of the late Jacqulin Nelson and stepfather of the late Michael Philip DeMatteis.

His funeral will be held from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Tuesday at 10 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Rocco’s Church, Johnston at 11 a.m.  VISITING HOURS: Monday 4-7 p.m.  Burial will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.