Nelson J. Menard

Nelson Menard, beloved family man and friend, born on November 26, 1918 in Chelsea, Massachusetts to Edith (Hames) and Felix Menard.

Nelson had a truly extraordinary life. He was the first person drafted from his hometown in World War II ("the only lottery that I ever won") and he was in the first wave to hit Omaha Beach on D Day, serving as the radio specialist for his Division. Later, Nelson "warmed the bench" with Babe Ruth on the Red Sox farm team, and he had a lifelong enjoyment of sports.

Nelson met friends wherever he traveled because he always approached people with love, tolerance and humor. He established a successful business, Menard Vending Company in Nashua, NH, based on the strengths of his relationship with others and his friendly, outgoing nature.

He is predeceased by his parents, brother Philip, sister Ruth, and his beloved aunt and uncle Armor and Gertrude Mills, as well as his in-laws, Gladys (Adams) and Aaron "Pop" Morrison, who was Nelson's dearest friend.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Patricia (Morrison) Menard, and three children, Bonnie (Douglas) Allen, Robert (Joanne) Menard and Kimberly (John) Gruninger. Nelson had several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A private celebration of Nelson's life will be held at a later date.

Please send donations in lieu of flowers to the Loretto Foundation in recognition of the compassionate care and friendship provided by his caregivers and friends.