John Nels

Born in Mineville on Oct. 14, 1946, he was the son of Walter and Elizabeth Nels.

John married Kathleen A. Waite on Aug. 24, 1968 at St. Michael’s Church in Witherbee.

John attended and received a Bachelor’s Degree from Plattsburgh State University and a Master’s degree in Education at the University of Maine. He later received a degree in Computer Science. John had been employed as a Math, Computer Science and Photography teacher for the Saranac Lake Central School District for over 30 years. He was also a parishioner of St. Bernard’s Church in Saranac Lake.

John cherished all of his wonderful times with best friends and loved ones. He was interested and dedicated in everything he did: spending time with his grandchildren, fly tying, rebuilding computers, fixing cameras and repairing cars, to name just a few. He was always delighted to find the best deals, flip items he fixed and return home with a big smile and a great story to share! Whether it was hunting and fishing adventures or cooking and trying recipes he enjoyed it all. His keen sense of humor touched all of our hearts. And his fascination with learning and teaching others every day will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen of Saranac Lake, two daughters Becky Nels of Lake Placid and Erin Gayne of Saranac Lake, two grandchildren Charlotte and Logan Gayne of Saranac Lake; two brothers David (Mary Kay) Nels of Chittenango, and Thomas Nels of Glens Falls, and several adored cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one daughter Anne Nels; two brothers, Walter Jr. and Edward and one sister, Beverly McCabe.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 31 at St. Bernard’s Church in Saranac Lake, with Rev. Martin Cline officiating. Burial will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery in Saranac Lake.

Anyone wishing to remember John may make memorial contributions to the Saranac Lake Fish and Game Club or St. Bernard’s School in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories online at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.