Martin Nelson's Obituary
Martin E. Nelson Born October 21, 1915 in Tacoma, WA to Swedish immigrants Ernest and Sigrid Nelson; passed away March 5, 2014 at the age of 98. He follows Mary Ellen, "M," the love of his life for 65 years. He is survived by his loving children Vic (Sharon), Karen (Ron), and Marsha (Rick), and 5 grandchildren, Brian, Kyla, Travis, Michelle and Brita, along with 8 great-grandchildren. Martin graduated from Stadium HS in 1933, College of Puget Sound in 1937, receieved his M.S. at U of Hawaii in 1939, and his Ph.D. in Physics and Mathematics from Ohio State University in 1942. He worked in the U.S. Gov't. program at Princeton and U. of Illinois, and then at the naval research laboratory in Washington D.C. during the war. He returned to Tacoma in 1946 to settle with his wife and children to start his career as a professor of physics at the now University of Puget Sound. Martin was chair of the Physics Dept. from 1956 until 1970, when he became director of Natural Sciences Division. In 1982 he was honored with a 1.5 million dollar endowment at UPS. Martin's passion was teaching. He asked to share the following quote, "I would like to express my appreciation to the many students and colleagues who enriched my life. Being a part of the academic community of UPS over those past years of the university's extraordinary development has been a lifetime rewarding experience." Martin had an incredible, fulfilling life, enjoying family and friends. He delighted in sharing stories about working at Mt. Rainier during college summer years and his many childhood memories. He had numerous interests; traveling, fishing, going to symphony performances, reading, and tending his garden and orchard, eventually becoming a Master Gardener. He especially enjoyed his time with family, going on trips with them and relaxing at his beach cabin. Those who wish may donate to the Dr. Martin Nelson Endowed Scholarship, created by his former students. Please send contributions UPS at 1500 N. Warner, CMB 1011, Tacoma WA 98416, or 253-879-3622. Remembrances may be shared at www.mountainviewtacoma.com, or PO Box 1615, Eatonville, WA 98328. A family gathering to celebrate Martin's life will be scheduled later.
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