Virgil A. Nelson

Virgil Arthur Nelson, 95, of Geneseo, passed away Thursday, December 14, 2023, at Hammond-Henry Hospital - Long Term Care in Geneseo. A visitation will be held at First Methodist Church in Geneseo from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 23, 2023, followed by a funeral service celebrating his life at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Dr. Chris Ritter will officiate. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Geneseo, followed by a luncheon at the church. Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel will be assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Geneseo First Methodist Church.

Virgil was born July 4, 1928, in Phenix Township, the son of Arthur Carl and Tella (McHenry) Nelson. He attended Bunker Hill country school and was a 1946 graduate from Geneseo High School. He served in the Army during the Korean War. He married Lois Firch on July 7, 1951, in Geneseo.

Virgil farmed on the family farm until retiring in 1992. He was a member of the First Methodist Church, Henry County Farm Bureau, Geneseo Moose Lodge, and a 75 year member of the American Legion.

He enjoyed his coffee groups and driving through the country to check on the farms. His family and the family farm were always his top priority. He relayed constant pride and love for his five great grandsons.

Survivors include his son, Greg (Barb) Nelson of Geneseo; grandchildren Jeff (Christine) Nelson of Moline, and Kim (Nick) Gehling of Geneseo; great-grandchildren Lucas, Bobby, and Derek Nelson and Jack and Max Gehling.

Virgil was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Carl and Tella (McHenry) Nelson; his wife, Lois; son, Thomas; and siblings Priscilla Liken, Joyce Rogers, and John M. Nelson.