Kevin M. Nelson, 72, departed this life on Thursday, April 7, 2016, after a brief battle with cancer and COPD.  The family will hold private services.

Kevin was born on September 20, 1943, in Lynbrook, New York, and was a mechanic specializing in classic cars, hot rods and drag racing. He graduated from high school in Warner Robins, Georgia, a town that would always remain near and dear to his heart as the place where he met and married the mother of his two children, and where he maintained many lifelong friendships.  It was in Warner Robins that he did most of his own drag racing on the old Warner Robins drag strip, where if your brakes and parachute failed, the corn field beyond would eventually stop you.  He was also a lifelong friend and a crew member for Shirl Greer, International Drag Racing Hall of Fame inductee.  Known by a variety of nicknames, and although gruff, ornery, and originally a northerner, Kevin was a lifelong friend to many, more hospitable than most southerners, and completely intolerant of cold temperatures.  He had an immeasurable love for his children and grandchildren, and understood the meaning of true friendship.

Kevin was predeceased by his father, Alfred Nelson, and mother, Edith Nelson.  He will forever live in the hearts of his son, Christopher Nelson (Amy), Shrewsbury NJ; daughter, Karen Warner (Gary), Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, Luke, Sadie, and Tess Nelson; sister, Karen Nelson (Lutz, FL); niece, Rachel Gentry (Orlando, FL); and a large extended family of numerous friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Kevin's memory to the JEGS Foundation: Racing for Cancer Research.  With support of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), the JEGS Foundation supports cancer research through efforts to build awareness and breakdown barriers to increase prevention and early detection. Money raised goes directly to cancer research. Additional information can be found at http://www.teamjegs.com/content/foundation.  A page has been set up to accept donations in honor of Kevin Nelson, accessible through this link:  http://www.supportohiostate.org/site/TR?pg=pfind&fr_id=1150