Former Nelson-Jameson president dies at 78

MARSHFIELD —

MARSHFIELD — John E. Nelson, former president and chairman of Nelson-Jameson Inc. who helped transform the food processing supply company into a nationwide operation, died June 2 at House of the Dove in Marshfield. He was 78.

Nelson spent 45 years with the company his father Earl co-founded, officially joining in 1975 after military service and college. He became president in 1982 and chairman of the board in 1998.

"Nelson-Jameson stands as a testament to John's leadership, unwavering positivity and genuine care," current company President Mike Rindy said in a statement announcing Nelson's death.

Ashley Winch, executive director of Marshfield Area United Way, said Nelson's impact extended throughout the community.

"For decades, John and his family have been pillars of generosity and compassion in our community," Winch said. "To know John was to understand that he truly cared for the wellbeing of everyone around him. His legacy lives on not only through the investment and care he put into the community, but in the example he set and the lives he uplifted."

Nelson made an immediate impact when he joined the family business, designing the company's Marshfield headquarters and warehouse that won a national design award. Under his leadership, the company expanded distribution centers nationwide while maintaining what the company calls its "Golden Rule culture."

Born in Marshfield, Nelson graduated with honors from Marshfield Senior High School in 1965, where he served as class president and participated in tennis, choir and marching band. He studied architecture at the University of Illinois before enlisting in the Navy during the Vietnam War, serving as a sonar technician on the USS Henry Clay nuclear ballistic missile submarine.

After military service, he returned to Illinois, where he met his wife Susan Uffenbeck. They married in 1973, and he completed his degree in business administration with honors.

Beyond Nelson-Jameson, he was deeply involved in the food and dairy industries. He received the Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and the Central Wisconsin Cheese and Butter Association's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. He served as past president of the Food Industry Suppliers Association and was a lifetime member of the North Central Cheese Industry Association.

Nelson also served on various community boards, including Ministry St. Joseph's Hospital, Associated Bank and the Marshfield City Plan Commission.

“John was a true leader in every sense, and he will be greatly missed,” Winch said.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; three children; and five grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday at Rembs Funeral Home in Marshfield, with visitation at 10 a.m. and services at noon. Services also will be streamed online at www.facebook.com/rembsfuneralhomes.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; three children; and five grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday at Rembs Funeral Home in Marshfield, with visitation at 10 a.m. and services at noon. Services also will be streamed online at www.facebook.com/rembsfuneralhomes.