Robert Stephen “Nelson” Nelson Sr., 56 of Avenue died peacefully Jan. 31, 2013, at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born May 26, 1956, in Leonardtown, he was the son of Mary C. Nelson and the late James Vernon Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his brother, James Phillip Nelson. He is survived by his wife of 4 months, Joyce Nelson of Avenue; his children, James P. Nelson (Melanie) of Hollywood and Robert S. Nelson (Shannon) of Avenue; four stepchildren, Joanne Morgan (Nick) of Lexington Park, Heather Murphy, Joseph Murphy IV and Ashley Wood, all of Avenue; grandchildren Andrew, Justin and Tyler Nelson of Hollywood and Alex Hodges and Lilly Nelson of Avenue; two step-grandchildren, Noah Hammett of Avenue and Hope Morgan of Middlesex, Va.; siblings, Phyllis Wagner (Harold) of Nebraska and Pat Nelson (Maryann) of Florida.

He was a lifetime waterman, an occupation that he enjoyed.

The family received friends and a funeral service was held Feb. 4 at the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home. Deacon Bill Nickerson officiated. Interment was private.