Edward R. "Butch" "Red" Nelson

Edward R. “Butch” "Red" Nelson, age 80 of East Leroy, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026. He was born in Ionia, Michigan on March 9, 1946, the son of Edwin and Esther (Zander) Nelson. Butch graduated from Battle Creek Central High School and continued his education at Rose State College in Oklahoma. He retired with the rank of SMSGT in the United States Air Force after more than 38 years of service. A true “Mr. Fix-it”, Butch was always willing to help others in need and enjoyed woodworking, fishing and grilling out.

Butch married Judith “Judy” (Babcock) Nelson in Battle Creek on December 16, 1989; she sadly preceded him in death on December 13, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Nicole Vanderlip; and six siblings. Butch is survived by his children, Amy (Laurie) Nelson, Marvin (Lisa) Vanderlip, Linda (Glenn) Grove and Tonya Moore; his sister, Lorena Peak; 7 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and many nieces & nephews.

Funeral services with full military honors will be held 2:00 p.m., Monday, November 9, 2026 at the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the USO (United Service Organizations) or the Calhoun County Red White Blue Foundation. Arrangements by Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Butch may be placed at www.henryfuneralhome.org.