Kermit Henry Nelson

Kermit Henry Nelson, 81, of Mineral City passed away February 16, 2021 surrounded by family at Aultman Hospital after an extended illness. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Kermit was born on June 6, 1939 in Tampa, Florida and was a son of the late William and Mary (Thompson) Nelson. He was also preceded in death by an infant brother.

Kermit was 1975 graduate of The University of South Florida earning a BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences (Criminology). Prior to receiving his degree, Kermit was a Hospital Corpsman in The United States Navy for 3 years. He then went on to serve for 9 years as a Patrolman for The City of Tampa Police Department. During his time as a Patrolman, Kermit played the Trombone for the Tampa Police Dance Band. After completing his Bachelor’s Degree, Kermit made his career as Probation Officer with The State of Florida Department of Corrections. He retired with over 25 years of service in 2004.

Kermit married Joan Carroll on April 29, 2001. In their younger days, the two enjoyed competing in Country Western Couples Dance Events. The pair moved to Ohio shortly after Kermit’s retirement and built their forever home together. They always enjoyed hosting their Floridian friends and family members for holidays and vacations.

Kermit was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in New Philadelphia. He was the active Church Treasurer at the time of his passing. Kermit was also a talented musician and could play a variety of different instruments. He occasionally played the guitar during church services or special church events.

When living in Florida, Kermit enjoyed fishing and liked going on Deep Sea Charters. He was especially proud of his Tampa roots and Cuban heritage. He loved researching the history and culture of his hometown. Kermit was an administrator for the Facebook Group, Tampa!!! Born and Raised and I Remember When….. which is dedicated to the history of Tampa, Fl. He especially loved cooking and making Cuban dishes for his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Joan (Carroll) Nelson; children, Marie (Bruce) Griffin of Panama City, Florida, Kermit (Theresa) Nelson Jr. of New Port Richey, Florida, Tabatha (Jason) Menapace of New Philadelphia; sister, Geanean Widden of Lakeland, Fl; brother, Kenneth Nelson of Whitter, North Carolina; grandchildren, Mark, Michelle, Eddie, Andrew, Hannah, Samantha, Emma, Nathan; great grandchildren, Ace, Nolan, Olivia, McKenzie and Isabella; and many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Private services will be held. The family will be greeting friends on Thursday, February 25th from 5-7 pm in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover. Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Kermit may do so by visiting the online obituaries link on the funeral home’s website.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church at 202 East High Ave., New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.