Dennis
Dennis T. Nelson
Dennis passed away Thursday, September 17, 2020 at his home in Otsego.
He was born November 8, 1950 in Flint the son of David and Gladys “Skip” (Marks) Nelson. Dennis loved music and was a musician. He was a member of several bands over the years including Wrkshop, Black Cat Bone and harmonica player for the Nelson Brothers Band. Dennis was an inspiration to many upcoming musicians. He was known to many as Denny “Never Out of Breath” Nelson. He opened for Johnny Winter and 38 Special and played many bike nights with his son Cory at the Tenth Street Saloon in Plainwell.
Nothing made Dennis happier than being Papa to his loved granddaughter, Layla, she was the light of his life. In his free time he enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing with his son and attending concerts with his wife. On April 17, 1982 in Martin he married Joyce Doss who survives.
Also surviving are his son, Cory (Ashley) Nelson of Otsego; his granddaughter, Layla who he adored; step-son, Caine Johnson of Plainwell; step-granddaughter, Nara; siblings, Curtis Nelson of Plainwell, David Nelson of Kalamazoo and Craig (Kathy) Nelson of Otsego along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
According to his wishes cremation has taken place.
A jam session to celebrate Dennis will be held at 5:00 P.M., Saturday, September 26, 2020 at the Tenth Street Saloon in Plainwell.
Contributions in memory of Dennis may be made to a scholarship fund for his granddaughter, Layla’s education.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
.
Offer Condolence for the family of Dennis T. Nelson
Condolence Messages
Sally Kenyon-laws
September 18, 2020 at 8:25 pm
So sorry to see this. Hugs & prayers to the family
Reply
Carol
September 19, 2020 at 12:00 am
Joyce n Cory, there are no words. Just feelings. All my love, hugs n prayers are all for you right now. Man is Den going to be missed. Hoping we can come see you on the 26th. Love you
Reply
Max Randal Honeysett
September 19, 2020 at 1:12 am
Hey Duck,
Tough thoughts to put down. So many things I am thankful to you for. Somehow I hope you are still blowing that harp. I never knew anyone that played it better than you. Thank you for countless hours of listening pleasure.
You are truly missed by so many of us that your legacy will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace Duck.
Reply
Jeanne Smith
September 19, 2020 at 1:22 am
Joyce & Cory, my heart goes out to you and your family. Dennis touched so many with his music and sense of humor, he will be truly missed. He was a good soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Judy Bard
September 19, 2020 at 7:50 am
So sorry about Dennis. He will be missed by many. May he Rest In Peace and I will keep you in my prayers.
Reply
David Lemense
September 19, 2020 at 8:45 am
Dennis has always been one of my heroes throughout the years! He always had a song in his heart and an intelligent opinion in his head! Country Manor Music Store, wouldn’t have been the same place without him and he will be sorely missed! Much love always, Brother!
Reply
Sue Cinka
September 19, 2020 at 10:03 am
I say again a light has gone out in this world
Dennis did leave behind a glimmer that will be seen as Cory and Layla go forward in this world.
Dennis Nelson you will be missed more than you could ever imagine
Love to all of your people…..
Reply
Nicole Knowlton
September 19, 2020 at 11:04 am
I’m so sorry praying for your family
Reply
Sally Thaxton Betzner
September 19, 2020 at 11:40 am
Am so saddened. For his family.
Reply
Dave Jones
September 19, 2020 at 12:43 pm
I met Dennis at KVCC where he was an outspoken (to say the least) columnist and enjoyed our years playing the blues together.
Dennis was my friend and I’ll always remember him with great happiness.
Sincere condolences to his family. He’ll be greatly missed.
Reply
Beth (Evink) Ronfeldt
September 19, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Joyce: Words wouldn’t be enough to express how sorry I am for your loss. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family. You have my deepest sympathies.
Reply
Ron & Gail (Foster) Tutewiler
September 19, 2020 at 4:47 pm
So sorry to hear about Dennis. Haven’t seen him in years but he was always fun and a great musician. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Reply
Tom Young
September 19, 2020 at 7:21 pm
So sorry,
We lost another Plainwell legend.
Reply
Linda Glaz
September 19, 2020 at 7:28 pm
So sorry to hear about Dennis. Well-deserved rest!!!
Reply
rohlfs
September 19, 2020 at 7:33 pm
So sorry for you loss!
Reply
Donna
September 19, 2020 at 8:17 pm
RI P DENNY YOU WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY. GREAT MEMORIES OF YOU AND THE HARMONICA. SO SORRY JOYCE AND CORY. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
Reply
Mary Steele
September 19, 2020 at 8:29 pm
Always enjoyed listening to the Nelson Brothers music. Thanks for the memories. RIP Dennis. Prayers for the family.
Reply
woody Myland
September 19, 2020 at 11:49 pm
rest in peace Dennis sunset in our world is sunrise in Heaven
Reply
Terry Shook
September 20, 2020 at 6:06 am
I grew up with these boys! Always very nice & funny. Denny had a smile that would knock you over. Always. I’m so sorry for your loss. R.I.P. Dennis
Reply
Tim and Marcia Quigley
September 20, 2020 at 8:04 am
Dear Craig, Kathy, and brothers and family,
We were very sad to hear of Dennis’ passing. We send our love and prayers to you.
My faith tells me that he is now an Angel in Heaven; there is beautiful music and laughter there! Hold onto your memories!
Reply
Henry
September 20, 2020 at 12:23 pm
So sorry for you loss thoughts and prayers for the family
Reply
Susie Knapp
September 20, 2020 at 1:12 pm
Many memories of nelson brothers band and denny playin his harmonica-those were the good old days-sorry for your loss nelson family
Reply
mary smith
September 20, 2020 at 2:07 pm
Sorry for your loss
Reply
Annie Motto
September 20, 2020 at 3:22 pm
My deepest condolences and empathy for the many loved ones left behind. Denny you connected me to so many beautiful and creative spirits . I’m fortunate to have known you. I can’t hear a harp without a fleeting image of you playing at the Otsego Inn with Curt, Buck and Tim. Rest peacefully.
Reply
Sue
September 24, 2020 at 3:47 pm
Wondered if you’d see this.
Glad you did
Reply
Annie
September 25, 2020 at 7:20 pm
Heart wrenching and difficult to imagine.
Reply
Sue
September 26, 2020 at 9:46 am
Can be reached via messenger
Reply
Linda Jacobs
September 20, 2020 at 6:46 pm
Joyce and Cory, we were so sorry to hear about Dennis. Tim has so many wonderful memories of playing music with Dennis over the years.
Tim and Linda Jacobs
Reply
TinaAllen-Wilson
September 20, 2020 at 9:12 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved him, family, friends. Many evenings spent listening to his wonderful music and many great conversations were had by all. Rest in heaven Denny.
Reply
Patti Vote Stephen's Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 12:42 am
Joyce, Cory & family We are saddened to hear about Dennis What a wonderful husband father and grandpa besides being so talented. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs
Reply
Patricia Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 9:17 am
Joyce,Cory & Family My heart aches for your loss. Denny was one hell of a guy, wonderful husband father grandpa. PRAYERS & HUGS
Reply
Patricia Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 9:17 am
Joyce,Cory & Family My heart aches for your loss. Denny was one hell of a guy, wonderful husband father grandpa. PRAYERS & HUGS
Reply
Ken Coburn
September 21, 2020 at 10:04 am
My childhood years were filled with playing with the Nelson brothers. Seems long ago but only yesterday. So sorry for your brother’s passing, stay close and always love one and all. Ken Coburn
Reply
Jo golden
September 21, 2020 at 11:16 am
I am so sorry To hear this Dennis was a wonderful person with a great talent He will be missed May God-bless
Reply
Rich and Starr Adams
September 21, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Joyce and family we are truly sorry to hear of Denny’s passing our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Cant tell you how happy he made people with his gift of music we loved listening to him. Joyce may Angel’s be with you during this hard time. And know you are loved by many. Hugs,
Rich and Starr Adams
Reply
Shirley Foster
September 21, 2020 at 6:05 pm
Healing to the hearts of all Dennis’s family & friends, there are a lot of us. May you realize that his light continues when you feel his hand on your shoulder, hear him whisper in the wind, hear his harmonica, or hear his laughter bringing you comfort. ♥♥
Reply
Cindy-Fuller-Pachner
September 22, 2020 at 10:00 am
Joyce so sorry for your loss, so sad that we are at the age that we loose so many people close to us. My prayers are with you and your family.
Reply
Tim and Kandie Perry
September 22, 2020 at 12:04 pm
So sorry to hear this. This has been a crazy year with all of our losses too, Thinking of you Joyce and hang in there and be strong,
Reply
Deb LaBelle
September 25, 2020 at 3:02 pm
Dennis was such an amazing human being. I think I was maybe seven years old when I figured out – if you want someone to tell you the truth, ask Dennis. He was my hero from that moment on. Dennis was smart, kind, hilarious and so talented. He will be dearly missed. Rest easy Dennis.
Reply
Judy
September 26, 2020 at 8:04 am
Dear Joyce, Cory and Family,
So sorry for your loss.
R.I.P. Dennis
Reply
Jim Weekes
October 2, 2020 at 1:34 pm
Dearest Joyce and Cory. I am so sorry to hear of Dennis passing. I enjoyed our relationship while we attended school in Plainwell. Although we lived in different parts of the country, we always made it a point to stay in touch and reminisce….
Reply
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He was born November 8, 1950 in Flint the son of David and Gladys “Skip” (Marks) Nelson. Dennis loved music and was a musician. He was a member of several bands over the years including Wrkshop, Black Cat Bone and harmonica player for the Nelson Brothers Band. Dennis was an inspiration to many upcoming musicians. He was known to many as Denny “Never Out of Breath” Nelson. He opened for Johnny Winter and 38 Special and played many bike nights with his son Cory at the Tenth Street Saloon in Plainwell.
Nothing made Dennis happier than being Papa to his loved granddaughter, Layla, she was the light of his life. In his free time he enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing with his son and attending concerts with his wife. On April 17, 1982 in Martin he married Joyce Doss who survives.
Also surviving are his son, Cory (Ashley) Nelson of Otsego; his granddaughter, Layla who he adored; step-son, Caine Johnson of Plainwell; step-granddaughter, Nara; siblings, Curtis Nelson of Plainwell, David Nelson of Kalamazoo and Craig (Kathy) Nelson of Otsego along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
According to his wishes cremation has taken place.
A jam session to celebrate Dennis will be held at 5:00 P.M., Saturday, September 26, 2020 at the Tenth Street Saloon in Plainwell.
Contributions in memory of Dennis may be made to a scholarship fund for his granddaughter, Layla’s education.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
.
Offer Condolence for the family of Dennis T. Nelson
Condolence Messages
Sally Kenyon-laws
September 18, 2020 at 8:25 pm
So sorry to see this. Hugs & prayers to the family
Reply
Carol
September 19, 2020 at 12:00 am
Joyce n Cory, there are no words. Just feelings. All my love, hugs n prayers are all for you right now. Man is Den going to be missed. Hoping we can come see you on the 26th. Love you
Reply
Max Randal Honeysett
September 19, 2020 at 1:12 am
Hey Duck,
Tough thoughts to put down. So many things I am thankful to you for. Somehow I hope you are still blowing that harp. I never knew anyone that played it better than you. Thank you for countless hours of listening pleasure.
You are truly missed by so many of us that your legacy will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace Duck.
Reply
Jeanne Smith
September 19, 2020 at 1:22 am
Joyce & Cory, my heart goes out to you and your family. Dennis touched so many with his music and sense of humor, he will be truly missed. He was a good soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Judy Bard
September 19, 2020 at 7:50 am
So sorry about Dennis. He will be missed by many. May he Rest In Peace and I will keep you in my prayers.
Reply
David Lemense
September 19, 2020 at 8:45 am
Dennis has always been one of my heroes throughout the years! He always had a song in his heart and an intelligent opinion in his head! Country Manor Music Store, wouldn’t have been the same place without him and he will be sorely missed! Much love always, Brother!
Reply
Sue Cinka
September 19, 2020 at 10:03 am
I say again a light has gone out in this world
Dennis did leave behind a glimmer that will be seen as Cory and Layla go forward in this world.
Dennis Nelson you will be missed more than you could ever imagine
Love to all of your people…..
Reply
Nicole Knowlton
September 19, 2020 at 11:04 am
I’m so sorry praying for your family
Reply
Sally Thaxton Betzner
September 19, 2020 at 11:40 am
Am so saddened. For his family.
Reply
Dave Jones
September 19, 2020 at 12:43 pm
I met Dennis at KVCC where he was an outspoken (to say the least) columnist and enjoyed our years playing the blues together.
Dennis was my friend and I’ll always remember him with great happiness.
Sincere condolences to his family. He’ll be greatly missed.
Reply
Beth (Evink) Ronfeldt
September 19, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Joyce: Words wouldn’t be enough to express how sorry I am for your loss. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family. You have my deepest sympathies.
Reply
Ron & Gail (Foster) Tutewiler
September 19, 2020 at 4:47 pm
So sorry to hear about Dennis. Haven’t seen him in years but he was always fun and a great musician. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Reply
Tom Young
September 19, 2020 at 7:21 pm
So sorry,
We lost another Plainwell legend.
Reply
Linda Glaz
September 19, 2020 at 7:28 pm
So sorry to hear about Dennis. Well-deserved rest!!!
Reply
rohlfs
September 19, 2020 at 7:33 pm
So sorry for you loss!
Reply
Donna
September 19, 2020 at 8:17 pm
RI P DENNY YOU WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY. GREAT MEMORIES OF YOU AND THE HARMONICA. SO SORRY JOYCE AND CORY. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
Reply
Mary Steele
September 19, 2020 at 8:29 pm
Always enjoyed listening to the Nelson Brothers music. Thanks for the memories. RIP Dennis. Prayers for the family.
Reply
woody Myland
September 19, 2020 at 11:49 pm
rest in peace Dennis sunset in our world is sunrise in Heaven
Reply
Terry Shook
September 20, 2020 at 6:06 am
I grew up with these boys! Always very nice & funny. Denny had a smile that would knock you over. Always. I’m so sorry for your loss. R.I.P. Dennis
Reply
Tim and Marcia Quigley
September 20, 2020 at 8:04 am
Dear Craig, Kathy, and brothers and family,
We were very sad to hear of Dennis’ passing. We send our love and prayers to you.
My faith tells me that he is now an Angel in Heaven; there is beautiful music and laughter there! Hold onto your memories!
Reply
Henry
September 20, 2020 at 12:23 pm
So sorry for you loss thoughts and prayers for the family
Reply
Susie Knapp
September 20, 2020 at 1:12 pm
Many memories of nelson brothers band and denny playin his harmonica-those were the good old days-sorry for your loss nelson family
Reply
mary smith
September 20, 2020 at 2:07 pm
Sorry for your loss
Reply
Annie Motto
September 20, 2020 at 3:22 pm
My deepest condolences and empathy for the many loved ones left behind. Denny you connected me to so many beautiful and creative spirits . I’m fortunate to have known you. I can’t hear a harp without a fleeting image of you playing at the Otsego Inn with Curt, Buck and Tim. Rest peacefully.
Reply
Sue
September 24, 2020 at 3:47 pm
Wondered if you’d see this.
Glad you did
Reply
Annie
September 25, 2020 at 7:20 pm
Heart wrenching and difficult to imagine.
Reply
Sue
September 26, 2020 at 9:46 am
Can be reached via messenger
Reply
Linda Jacobs
September 20, 2020 at 6:46 pm
Joyce and Cory, we were so sorry to hear about Dennis. Tim has so many wonderful memories of playing music with Dennis over the years.
Tim and Linda Jacobs
Reply
TinaAllen-Wilson
September 20, 2020 at 9:12 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved him, family, friends. Many evenings spent listening to his wonderful music and many great conversations were had by all. Rest in heaven Denny.
Reply
Patti Vote Stephen's Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 12:42 am
Joyce, Cory & family We are saddened to hear about Dennis What a wonderful husband father and grandpa besides being so talented. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs
Reply
Patricia Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 9:17 am
Joyce,Cory & Family My heart aches for your loss. Denny was one hell of a guy, wonderful husband father grandpa. PRAYERS & HUGS
Reply
Patricia Rybicki
September 21, 2020 at 9:17 am
Joyce,Cory & Family My heart aches for your loss. Denny was one hell of a guy, wonderful husband father grandpa. PRAYERS & HUGS
Reply
Ken Coburn
September 21, 2020 at 10:04 am
My childhood years were filled with playing with the Nelson brothers. Seems long ago but only yesterday. So sorry for your brother’s passing, stay close and always love one and all. Ken Coburn
Reply
Jo golden
September 21, 2020 at 11:16 am
I am so sorry To hear this Dennis was a wonderful person with a great talent He will be missed May God-bless
Reply
Rich and Starr Adams
September 21, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Joyce and family we are truly sorry to hear of Denny’s passing our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Cant tell you how happy he made people with his gift of music we loved listening to him. Joyce may Angel’s be with you during this hard time. And know you are loved by many. Hugs,
Rich and Starr Adams
Reply
Shirley Foster
September 21, 2020 at 6:05 pm
Healing to the hearts of all Dennis’s family & friends, there are a lot of us. May you realize that his light continues when you feel his hand on your shoulder, hear him whisper in the wind, hear his harmonica, or hear his laughter bringing you comfort. ♥♥
Reply
Cindy-Fuller-Pachner
September 22, 2020 at 10:00 am
Joyce so sorry for your loss, so sad that we are at the age that we loose so many people close to us. My prayers are with you and your family.
Reply
Tim and Kandie Perry
September 22, 2020 at 12:04 pm
So sorry to hear this. This has been a crazy year with all of our losses too, Thinking of you Joyce and hang in there and be strong,
Reply
Deb LaBelle
September 25, 2020 at 3:02 pm
Dennis was such an amazing human being. I think I was maybe seven years old when I figured out – if you want someone to tell you the truth, ask Dennis. He was my hero from that moment on. Dennis was smart, kind, hilarious and so talented. He will be dearly missed. Rest easy Dennis.
Reply
Judy
September 26, 2020 at 8:04 am
Dear Joyce, Cory and Family,
So sorry for your loss.
R.I.P. Dennis
Reply
Jim Weekes
October 2, 2020 at 1:34 pm
Dearest Joyce and Cory. I am so sorry to hear of Dennis passing. I enjoyed our relationship while we attended school in Plainwell. Although we lived in different parts of the country, we always made it a point to stay in touch and reminisce….
Reply
Leave a Condolence
Cancel reply
Please share your message of condolence with the family, It will be visible to the public but your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked
*
Comment
*
Name
*
*
Δ
Obituary Notification Service
Enter your email address if you would like to be notified when a new obituary notice is posted:
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How do I send a condolence
At the bottom of this page, you will find a condolence form. You will need to fill out some basic information prior to typing your message. (We will not share your e-mail address with anyone) Once you are finished, simply click the submit condolence button. The condolence will be approved before it is published to the web site.
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