Obituary of Nelson Edward Down

In his 76th year, Nelson Down passed on December 16, 2025. He was the son of the late Helen and Stanley Down. Nelson is survived by his son Nicholas Down and grandchildren Gavin and Gwen; and by his daughter Katrina (Micah) Williamson and grandchildren Samuel, Abigail, Elizabeth, Andrew and Daniel. He was also survived by his siblings Shirley (Jim) Grime, Kathy (Ron) Campbell, Connie (Eugene) Schwartzentruber, Paul (Lynette) Down, Julie Stoneham, Ruth (Eric) Slaa.

Nelson was always an entrepreneur at heart and loved working with his hands. He found joy in creating through woodworking and photography. A lifelong lover of antiques, Nelson believed the world was far too wasteful and took pride in saving, restoring, and recycling what others discarded.

He was an avid collector of many things–more than most–developing this passion in his teenage years. He took great pride in everything he did, from his first job at Wells Fargo to owning several businesses over the years.

His movie and music collection showed he enjoyed many different genres but the oldies but goodies shone through. Nelson had a strong love for fishing, hunting and nature and spent countless hours on the road with his dog Coco as his co-pilot.

Until the end, Nelson’s sense of humour remained, and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 11:30a.m. until 12:30p.m. at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY. A funeral service will take place at 1:00p.m. at the funeral home. Interment to follow at Appin Cemetery. A reception will be held after the interment, at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY-Caradoc Room. 

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Parkinson Society of Canada.