Nathan Nelson supported adults who experience disabilities with calmness, dignity and respect. Nathan tragically passed away in December 2019 when he was hit by a car while walking with his client on 42nd St. in Springfield.While it’s heartbreaking to learn the driver who hit him was allegedly intoxicated (read Man Faces Charges in Crash that Killed Arc Lane County Employee), we hope the news brings some closure to Nathan’s family, friends and colleagues.
Nathan was a quiet man who didn’t like accolades. Yet, The Arc posthumously awarded Nathan the Shining Start award in March 2020. The Arc staff believes Nathan’s last act was to push his client out of harm’s way. While Nathan wouldn’t like the attention, his actions were truly heroic.
Nathan will forever be memorialized at The Arc Lane County with a cross that will be placed near the accident site and a memorial brick to be placed in the future Arc Park.
Rest in peace Nathan. You are dearly missed.
