John Gerald Nelson

John Gerald Nelson, 63, of Muncie, Indiana, passed away on May 29, 2025. Born on January 31, 1962, in Muncie, John lived a full and colorful life rooted in music, family, friendship, and genuine connection.

A true people-person, John never met a stranger. Whether chatting with someone he just met on the street or striking up a conversation on Facebook, he had a gift for making others feel seen and heard. He poured his heart into the people he worked with, many of whom he considered family.

John was passionate about music—especially live music—and took great pride in his vinyl collection. A lifelong hippie at heart, he answered to many nicknames over the years: Hippie John, Nuce, Nuisance, Nelson, Rail Rider, Papa Bear, and Buttercup. No matter what you called him, if you knew him, you knew he was a good guy.

He loved grilling out (though he didn’t often let anyone else man the grill), watching the races—especially the Indy 500—and spending time with the people he loved most. One of his most cherished memories was taking his grandmother to the Grand Ole Opry for her 90th birthday. When she wasn’t sure she could make it, John told her, Don’t worry—I’ll get you up there.

John was married to the love of his life, Shawna Nelson, for 36 years. He was a proud husband, dad, and grandpa who lit up when talking about his kids and grandkids.

He is survived by his beloved wife Shawna; his children John Nelson Jr. (Liz), Shawnda Kissick (Brian), Jeremy Nelson (Nicki), Joseph Nelson (Deborah), Jacob Nelson, and Stephanie Forman (Phil); and his grandchildren Adrianna, Jasmine, Karly, Maleki, Riley, Aries, Stiles, Bella, Ziviah, Larissa, Elijah, Madison, and Harlen. He is also survived by his mother Sharon Cain; his father Richard Nelson; his stepfather Larry Dulworth; his sister Kathy Lewis (Doug);his brother Tommy Dulworth (Kim); as well as two nieces and two nephews.

John was preceded in death by his grandparents—Grandma and Grandpa Nelson and Granny and Grandpa McFadden.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Heekin Park in Muncie, IN at a later date.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, music, and love. John's warmth and unique spirit will live on in every story told, every record played, and every grill fired up in his honor.