HILDING "HANK" NELSON

Hilding "Hank" Nelson, 69, of Panama City, passed away February 29, 2012 in his home, after a brief battle with stomach cancer.

Hank was born on a farm near Greeley, Colorado in 1943 and was always working from a young age. In his senior year, he served as the class president, won a prestigious science award from the National Science Foundation, participated in athletics and graduated Valedictorian from Ault, CO in 1962. He then went to Colorado State University, and graduated, with highest Honor, in Physics. After graduation in 1965, he moved to Panama City, FL and started his 38 year career at the Navy Mine Defense Laboratory, where he became an expert in acoustic detection of underwater mines and mine counter measures. Throughout his career Hank represented the Panama City Navy Lab and the U.S. on both national and international panels, often to Brussels, Belgium for talks with NATO.

He had a passion for sailing, with adventures to Port Charlotte, the Keys, and the BVI. He also loved Disney World, Belgian chocolate, classical music, Broadway musicals, NFL football, and conservative politics.

Hank is survived by his wife of 42 years, Susan Nelson of Panama City; his two children, William and wife Jenny of Columbia, SC, Ingrid of San Francisco, CA; grandchildren, Claire and Henry; sister, Adele Ramstetter and husband Joe of Greeley, CO and large extended loving family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Delbert and Lillie Nelson.

A celebration of life service will be held Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 11:00 AM in the Holy Nativity Episcopal Church with Father Steve Bates officiating. He will be interred March 22 in Greeley, Colorado. Those who wish may make a donation to Covenant Hospice, 107 West 19th Street, Panama City, Florida 32405, in Hank Nelson's memory.

He was a man of a few words, quiet and caring. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, beautiful blue eyes, kind heart, and quick wit. Hank and his family thank all for their love and support.

Wilson Funeral Home