Mr. Frederick “Fred” M. Nelson, 87, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away at 12:11 pm, Sunday, April 12, 2026, at his home.
Fred was born April 16, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois and was raised by Nels A. and Helen Nelson. He married Joyce English in Galesburg and from that union were two children, Mark and Kim. Joyce and Fred later divorced.
Fred graduated from Knoxville High School in 1956. He went on to work for the City of Galesburg as a fireman serving for over 30 years, retiring February 28, 1993. Fred was a member of the Galesburg Firefighters Association Local 555.
Fred was an avid racquetball player at the Racquetball Club, playing well into his 70s. He had a love for labrador retriever dogs, especially his two, Sophie and Megan. He enjoyed reading and could often be found driving around Galesburg visiting the folks at his favorite establishments, the Brickyard and Duffy’s.
Fred is survived by his daughter, Kim Rubendunst of Glenview, Illinois; two grandchildren, Beau (Maggie King) Rubendunst of Niles, Illinois and Annie Rubendunst of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and one great grandchild, Eliza. Fred is preceded in death by his parents and his son, Mark Nelson in 2025.
Per Fred’s wishes cremation will be accorded with no services scheduled at this time. Memorials may be made to the Knox County Humane Society. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is assisting his family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
