James Nelson

James “Jim” Nelson, 72, of Sheridan, IL, passed away Friday, June 26, 2026, at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, IL. He was born April 5, 1954, in Aurora, IL, the son of James and Barbara (Calvert) Nelson. Jim married Patricia Doze on May 24, 1980, in Oswego, IL. He had a career he loved as a pipeline welder for the Local 597 Chicago, where he worked for over 30 years until his retirement in 2015. Jim would spend everyday possible tending to his vegetable garden, sometimes taking his saltshaker with him to enjoy a fresh snack. He had a deep love for jigsaw puzzles, and has an incredible collection, almost filling a room. Jim enjoyed riding his Harley and cruising around on the golf cart. He was pretty good at horseshoes and loved to get comfortable watching Westerns. Most of all, Jim loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Nelson; his children, Matthew Nelson and Brenda (Miguel Luna, Sr.) Becker; his beloved grandchildren, Karter Nelson and MaCayla Becker; his siblings, Brenda Nelson, Teresa Nelson, and Clint (Lisa) Nelson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Barb, and his sister, Cindy.

A Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, IL. Memorial Service in Jim’s honor will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the funeral home in Somonauk. The family has asked guests to bring pictures of and stories about Jim, they know there are countless great memories, and they would love to hear all of them! For more information or to sign the online guest book, to go www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home 
13160 Rt 34 W ~ PO Box404 
Somonauk, IL 60552 
815-498-2363