Rodger John Nelson

Rodger John Nelson, age 76, passed away April 5th, 2026. He was born in Hustisford, Wisconsin on January 1, 1950 to John and Sylvia Nelson.

Rodger is survived by his twin daughters Tina (Tim) Hackbarth and Christa (Tim) Gavin. He is further survived by his grandchildren Seth Hackbarth, Emma Hackbarth, Caleb Gavin, Jacob Gavin, Kayla Nelson (fiancé Jonathan Hanlon), and Ayden Schmidt. His sister Carol Zietlow, sister in-laws Anola Beine and Carol Jones, nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Rodger is proceeded death by his wife Mary Jane Nelson (Christopherson), his parents John and Sylvia Nelson (Lauersdorf), parent in laws Lester and Mabel Christopherson (Christenson), son Eric Nelson, grandson Brady Hackbarth, sister in-law, and brother in-laws.

He attended Oconomowoc Schools. He was a Seaman in the US Navy and he served during the Vietnam War. Rodger was a proud veteran.

Rodger and Mary were married on Valentines Day, 1972 at St Olaf's Church in the Town of Ashippun spending 54 years together. His career was mainly in the plastic mold injection industry until he retired. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing, and hunting. He took pleasure in watching the birds and wildlife that would visit in the backyard. He had a quick wit and could always come up with a humorous pun. 

Rodger loved his wife Mary and was proud of his children and grandchildren. 

He was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc.

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

Visitation will take place Friday, April 10, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm, with a service to follow at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (New location: 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066). Military honors will be performed following the service.