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Welcome
The morning began with a light rain and slowly water began collecting on the 20’ X 40’ tent. As the rain stopped, all-hands-on-deck began placing the chairs and wiping tables. Thanks to Cathryn (Bruce)
the water collections on the top of the tent were removed.
Guests visited the Registration, T-Shirt, and Display Tables prior to the program. Also, many items with multiple copies were souvenir gifts for guests, including copies of the presentations.
Commander Harold Borel, AVHG and his group of veterans providing a military funeral, complete with a 21-gun salute.
Ed Dugas welcomed guests, presented a brief prayer he had given to Fred on July 4, 2023, and introduced his family – Marilyn and some of the children (Lesley, Laurie, and John) and their families.
The Nelson Memorial Committee of Michael Bishop, Dan and Mona Bouillion, and Bruce Baudier were recognized, along with the staffing personnel for the tables.
Registration: Mona Bouillion; T-Shirts: Lesley Dugas Angelle and Rae Hebert; Display Tables: John Dugas, Jess Dugas, Jo Dugas, and Huddy Gunawan.
Former HPE student Claude Revels distributed the Longhorn Ear Deflectors with assistance from Will and Jack Labit.
Presentations were made by Dan Bouillion* former HPE student and Dr. Gerry Carlson former HPE Department Head and Dean, UL College of Education. He shared Erik’s poetry accomplishments, including excerpts from his last book – “Life and Love---Its Joy, Its Pain”. Please click the Amazon link below for more information on his poetry book.
Ed Dugas (in place of Carolyn’s sister Beth and husband Tommy) read excerpts from Erik’s 2nd to last poem “Remembering Carolyn”* which Erik read at her memorial service, Mary Bergeron* presented Erik’s last poem, “The Crochet Ladies” and other information which included the wonderful care provided by Hospice of Acadiana.
*These items are attached to the post-memorial service email and will be posted on Nelson’s website. Dan’s letter is already posted on the website.
Ed sprinkled information about Fred’s life throughout the program, as follows: Baby Nelson (no name until age 6 for passport), childhood reflections, primary grades, middle school, high school, WWII – both his and some of family in Norway, University of Texas – GI Bill, Gymnastics Team with Astronaut Alan Bean, Mr. Austin in 1948, posed for Art Department as a model, a few fishing stories, some of his inventions – A-OK Mud Hammer, Nelson Reaction Timer, Outdoorsman’s Clock, then activities of his last years. At the end, the care Michael Bishop provided to him and Fran, along with the many activities in which he attempted to keep both involved were simply awesome. Fred called on Michael at any time and knew he would always be there for him – and he was. Fred showed tremendous courage at the end and accepted the fact that the blood transfusions no longer worked. He stated several times that he was ready to face that day and kept doing things until the very end – July 4th the day before his passing, he, sitter Angel Thomas, and nephew Bob Nelson had his favorite 2 X 2 X 2 breakfast at IHOP.
Dr. Aaron Tiffee who provided Fran and Fred with needed home-care was recognized, along with Fred’s HPE students.
The microphone was provided to the audience at the end of the program and Claude Revels and Tammi Baudoin (Lowry’s) shared some of their experiences with Fred.
The final speaker was Joey Morvant (Nelson Webmaster) who provided information about the website. Joey took many photos throughout the memorial service.
The website will be a work in progress, so check it from time to time to see how things are going. PLEASE send any photos, poems, letters or memories you would like posted
to Joey using his contact information below.
Nelson’s website address: www.nelsonusl.com
Joeys email: jmorphotography@gmail.com
Joeys phone: (337) 296-6935
The memorial service ended with guests enjoying refreshments and chicken strips from Raising Canes, followed by visits to Fran or Fred’s houses and points of interest on the property.
Peace, Ed Dugas
Edmond.dugas1@louisiana.edu
Click here for Fred’s obituary https://www.lafuneralservices.com/obituary/frederick-erik-nelson
Click here for Life and Love ---Its Joy, Its Pain (last poetry book) https://www.amazon.com/Life-Love-Braum-Frederick-Nelson-ebook/dp/B07C3WLFJC
Click here for Nelson’s Calculator on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Nelsons-Best-Fishing-Hunting-Times-Calculator/100068930947788/ [facebook.com]
Click here for Nelson’s Reaction Timer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fy_WOd7YCQ0 [youtube.com]
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