Edward J. Nelson, 80, Lafayette, died Saturday night at Murdock Manor, Lafayette, where he has resided since October 15, 1993.

He was born June 4, 1914 in Wellington, IL to A.D. "Archie" and Maude Haye Nelson. He married Grace Barrett in Wolcott on August 13, 1938, and she survives.

He retired in 1981 with a health disability from MATT-SON Inc. where he was a warehouse supervisor. He lived in Lafayette since 1984, moving there from Hanover Park, IL. He graduated from Wellington High School in 1933 and attended business school. He was a member of the Greenbush Street Baptist Church, Lafayette.

Surviving with his wife are two sons, Edward J. Nelson Jr., Corning, IA, and Robert Lee Nelson, Westville, IL; two daughters, Mrs. Tom (Peggy) Pence, Boswell, and Laverna Nelson, Lafayette; one brother, Archie Nelson of Oilman, IL; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Three brothers and two sisters are deceased.

Funeral services were held Tuesday at Hartzler Funeral Home, Brookston, Pastor James Chase officiated.

Burial was in Chalmers Community Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Greenbush Street Baptist Church.