Mohawk, NY - John F. Nelson, 77, of Mohawk, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Abraham House in Rome, with his beloved children by his side.

John was born on March 3, 1949, in Ilion, a son of the late Thomas and Gladys (Cooley) Nelson. He was raised in Ilion and graduated from Ilion High School with the Class of 1968. Following graduation, he continued his education at Paul Smith's College, where he studied Environmental Science and Forestry.

In 1980, John began a distinguished career with the New York State Police, proudly serving as a New York State Trooper for 20 years until his retirement in 2000. His years in law enforcement reflected his dedication to public service and his commitment to the communities he served.

Never one to remain idle, John pursued his passion for electrical work following his retirement, establishing his own business, Nelson Electric. He took great pride in his work and found tremendous satisfaction in operating his business, a venture that allowed him to continue doing something he truly enjoyed.

John had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and was happiest when surrounded by nature. Whether fishing, hunting, boating, or simply soaking up the sunshine, he embraced every opportunity to be outside. A true sun worshiper, John never missed a chance to enjoy a beautiful, sunny day. Among his most treasured traditions were his annual fishing trips to Cape Cod with his friends. These trips brought him tremendous joy, filled with good fishing, great company, laughter, and memories that would last a lifetime. For John, there was little better than being on the water, enjoying the sunshine, and sharing those moments with the people he loved.

Above all else, John cherished his family. His children and grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the love they shared was a constant throughout his life. His family will forever treasure the memories they made together and the lasting influence he had on their lives.

John leaves behind his three beloved children, Julie Matt and her husband, Steven, of Utica; Scott Nelson and his companion, Dentiny Leroy, of Mohawk; and Sarah Nelson and her companion, Christopher Gleason, of Mohawk. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Billy, Travis, Emily, Tayler and Ellie; and his great-grandchildren, Phoebe and Ace. John is also survived by his siblings, Janice Nelson of Florida and Dana Nelson of South Carolina.

He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Gladys Nelson, and his twin brother, Tommy Nelson.

John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his years of dedicated service, his independent spirit, and, most importantly, the love he had for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A gathering of remembrance of John's life will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 12:00 noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Waterfront Grill in Herkimer. All who knew and loved John are warmly invited to attend, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.

John's family wishes to extend their most heartfelt gratitude to John Slopnick and Gary Norman for their friendship, kindness, and unwavering support. Your thoughtfulness and the special place you held in John's life will never be forgotten. Please know how deeply your friendship has been appreciated and how much it has meant to John and his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in John's memory to Hospice & Palliative Care of New Hartford, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413 or to the Abraham House of Rome, 417 N Washington St, Rome, NY 13440.

To leave condolences or share a special memory with John's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.