Norman R Nelson "Rhubarb The Clown"

Mt. Morris, IL Norman R. Nelson "Rhubarb The Clown", age 87, died December 16, 2012 in Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home, Mt. Morris, IL. Norm was born May 22, 1925 in Morris, IL the son of Roy & Anna (Hejlek) Nelson. Norman graduated from Morris High School class of 1943. Norm enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 before graduating from high school. He served in the Italian Campaign; earning a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with a Cluster. Norm married Virginia Stouffer July 17, 1954 in Mt. Morris, IL. Norm worked as an Optician for Dr. Kortmeier, he worked for Stouffer Poultry Farm and Hatchery, Mt. Morris as a Sales Rep., and he then went to the Mt. Morris Post Office working as a Clerk. He was an amateur Ventriloquist, and White Faced Clown. He also was a Ogle County Master Gardener. Norm is survived by Virginia Nelson, Mt. Morris, IL; Son: Jeffrey Norman (Kathy) Nelson, Huntsville, AL; Daughter: Kristin (David) Sible, Byron, IL; Grandchildren: Rachel, Lauren, Christopher, and Connor Sible, Byron, IL. Sister: Dorothy Anstett, Peoria, IL. Norm is preceded in death by Parents. Memorial services will be Friday December 21, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. in St. James Lutheran Church, Forreston, IL with Rev. Steven Erickson officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Mt. Morris, IL. Visitation will be Thursday December 20, 2012 in Finch Funeral Home, 405 East Hitt, Mt. Morris, IL from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Memorials to St. James Lutheran Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, and the Loaves and Fishes, "Pet Pantry."