June 5, 1949 - July 4, 2023

Joseph M. Nelson, Sr., 74, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at his home.  Born in Bristol Borough, son of the late George and Gertrude (nee Loughran) Nelson. Joe was a lifelong resident of Bristol and a graduate of Bristol High School, Class of 1968. He was the owner of Triangle, Fire & Safety Equipment and Super Can Industries where he utilized his talents ultimately patenting several life saving devices across the country. He was a volunteer firefighter with Bristol Station 53 for 30 years, 19 of those years he served as Chief. Joe founded the first dive rescue team in Pennsylvania that established underwater emergency search and recovery operations.  

Throughout his life he enjoyed gardening, coaching his children's sports, building model train sets for his grandchildren and spending family time at Knoebels. 

He is survived by his children, Joseph Nelson, Jr. and his wife, Samantha, Matthew Nelson and his wife, Gina, Jacquel Pham and her husband, Stephen, Brittany Nelson and her fiance Dillon; his beloved grandchildren, Alex and his wife, Kristen, Shane, Brett, Brian, Dylan, Marlana and Maddox.  He is also survived by his brother, George Nelson (Madeline), sisters, Edna Padilla (Jose), Kathleen Trasatti (Robert) and brother-in-laws Larry Daniels and Timothy Kasperitis, along with many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his sisters, Maryellen Daniels and Diane Kasperitis.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass at 11am on Monday, July 17, 2023 at St. Mark Church, 1025 Radcliffe Street, Bristol Borough. Interment to follow at St. Mark Cemetery. Friends may call from 10-11am Monday at the Church.  Arrangements are  under the direction of Wade Funeral Home, Bristol Borough.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Service Details

In Memory of
Joseph M. Nelson, Sr.

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