Eric Otto Rodger Nelson

Eric Otto Rodger Nelson, 48, of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, passed away on October 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Eric was born on October 24, 1976, in Oconomowoc, where he spent most of his life. He worked as a welder and took pride in his craft and the hard work it required.

He was known for his quick wit, big heart, and determined nature that made him truly one of a kind. Eric loved going up north, fishing, and ATVing with friends and family. He was a tinkerer and handyman who always had a project in the works, whether it was fixing something up or building something new. He brought laughter and loyalty to everyone who knew him.

Eric was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church of Oconomowoc and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his mother Mary Nelson, father Rodger Nelson, children Kayla Nelson (fiancé Jonathan Hanlon) and Ayden Schmitt, siblings Christa (Tim) Gavin and Tina (Tim) Hackbarth, niece Emma Hackbarth, nephews Seth Hackbarth, Caleb Gavin, and Jacob Gavin, and dear friend Lori Capelle. He was preceded in death by his nephew Brady Hackbarth.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Pagenkopf Funeral Home in Oconomowoc, with a service to follow at 5:00pm. Burial will take place on Saturday, October 18, at St. Luke’s Cemetery in Ixonia, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the family are appreciated.