Final Salute

Peter Mackie Nelson (Pete) born February 10, 1944 in Aberdeen Washington passed away peacefully January 27, 2022 after a brief battle with cancer. Pete is survived by his wife Katherine L Nelson (Hughes), and two children with their families; son, Eric Nelson, daughter-in-law Aubre Nelson, grandson Talisker Nelson and daughter Kristina Anderson, son-in-law Jeffrey Anderson and granddaughter Karli Anderson.

A 1962 graduate of Port Angeles High School, Pete met his wife Kathy (Pt Angeles Class of 1963, daughter of Ken and Pauline Hughes of Sequim) skiing at Hurricane Ridge in 1960. Following graduation, and a little bit of fun abroad, Pete volunteered for the military in 1966 and entered the Seabees division of the Navy.

Pete and Kathy married 1965 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Pt Angeles surrounded by family and friends. Pete soon deployed and was wounded during his first tour receiving a purple heart. After healing, he volunteered for and finished a second tour. In 1968 he welcomed his son Eric and post-military the new family of 3 took up residence in Tacoma Washington, working with his parents, Carl and Mickie (Hortense) Nelson at Tacoma Port-Angeles Auto Freight and studying for his degree. He graduated from University of Puget Sound in 1970, following the birth of his daughter, Kristina (Kris).

Pete worked hard but family was his priority. You would often see him leave work to catch a child’s ballgame or match then rush back and finish the day. As hard as he worked, fun followed. He shared a love of sailing, skiing and traveling with his family and friends. His smile and laugh drew in all who knew him and merriment followed. Memories of sailing, skiing, laughing and playing have brought joy to his family and friends. Travels to Europe, Mexico, The Caribbean and a recent trip to Vietnam to revisit will be memories forever in our hearts.

After retirement, Pete and Kathy moved to Grayland, WA. They found new friendships through the VFW and volunteered regularly. Recently, they moved to Lacey, WA and have been so grateful the last few months given the diagnosis as they were able to be with eachother. Throughout treatment, as with their entire lives, Kathy always by Pete’s side, encouraging and helping.

A devoted husband, Pete and Kathy were married for 56 years, weathering all the ups and downs and always taking on life, holding hands as they walked together. Their 50th Anniversary was celebrated at a castle in Ireland, just as requested with kids and grandchild. Kathy was with Pete until the very end, making sure that he was comfortable and happy and following his last wishes; to be at home with his family.

Pete, Peter, Nelson, Dad and Grandpa we will miss you.