Jalmer Nelson

Jalmer Nelson, 83, of Independence, MO, passed away Monday, November 19, 2012. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, November 23, at Speaks Suburban Chapel; 18020 E 39th Street Independence. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 24th, 2012 at East Alton Community of Christ; 16999 E 23rd Street, Independence. Inurnment at Mound Grove cemetery will be held at a later time. Jalmer was born April 30, 1929 in Independence, MO to Jalmer Garfield and Evanelia (Perry) Nelson. He attended Finley School of Engineering after returning from the Korean War as an Army Sargeant. Jalmer married his wife Cheryl, December 24th, 1950, and together they raised four girls. As a family they enjoyed vacations across the Midwest together. He owned and operated plastics companies including the local JC Plastics; now owned by his daughter and son-in-law. Jalmer was an accomplished wood worker and made many pieces to be treasured by his family. He also played the tuba and bass strings in the military, as well as the Independence Symphony. Jalmer was a devout Christian and life long member of the Community of Christ. He was an ordained Evangelist of the church and also a chaplain for Centerpoint Medical Center. Jalmer is survived by his wife, Cheryl Nelson of the home; daughters, Linda Bendorf (Randy) of Lancaster, WI; Kathryn Schreiner (Jay) of Jackson, MS; Judy Runnels (Tracy) of Independence, MO; Beverly Byrd (David) of Des Moines, IA; seven grandchildren; and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Wilda Ross and Bonnibelle Chelline. In lieu of flowers the family encourages contributions to East Alton Future Fund 16999 E 23rd Street, Independence, MO 64057 in his name.