Ronald E. Nelson

Ronald E. Nelson was born December 1, 1941, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Ross and Alta Nelson. When Ron was four years old, his family purchased a small dairy farm and moved to Bailey, Michigan. He enjoyed growing up on the farm, helping to milk the cows and fieldwork—land he still owns today.

He attended Ferguson Country School (1 room schoolhouse) through sixth grade before continuing his education at Grant Public Schools, Class of 1960. In high school, he was active in FFA, serving as President and District Vice President. He was also senior class president and a senior student council representative.

After high school, Ron began his career as a bank teller at Grant State Bank for 3 years before leaving for basic training with the Michigan Army National Guard. Upon returning home he took a job in Product Development, Research Department at Gerber Product Company in Fremont. Recognizing Ron’s potential, his supervisor encouraged him to pursue higher education. He began at Muskegon Junior College, later transferred to Ferris State College, and ultimately completed his BS degree in Agriculture Distribution from Western Michigan University in 1970.

Ron married Betty (Eady) in 1964 and together they celebrated 61 years of marriage in 2025. He was a devoted family man who cherished time spent with his son Roger, his daughter Karen, her husband Tory, and their sons Blake, and Trent and of course Maizey. The family shared countless memories and traditions over the years. Travel was especially important to them, beginning with family road trips across the United States in a truck camper, eventually upgrading to a fifth wheel. After retirement, Ron and Betty continued to explore the world, enjoying international travel and several cruises. Ron loved attending every event his children and grandchildren were involved in and was a dedicated supporter of the Portland Raiders whenever family was participating.

Ron served in the Michigan Army National Guard, 3rd Battalion, 126th Infantry, stationed in Grand Rapids from 1963–1970. He completed basic training at Fort Knox, KY, and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was activated three times for riot duty and credited his military experience for shaping his strong work ethic and impressive “shoe shine.”

Ron devoted his life to serving Michigan’s agricultural community and public institutions with dedication, integrity, and leadership. Ron began his career with Michigan Farm Bureau in April 1970 as a Regional Representative in the West Region. In June 1972, he accepted a position in the Market Development Division. By November 1975, he was appointed Local Affairs Specialist in the Public Policy Division, and in December 1979, he was promoted to Legislative Counsel. In 2002, he became Manager of the State Governmental Affairs Department—the position in which he completed his distinguished career. Ron retired from Michigan Farm Bureau in July 2007 after a long, successful career. 

Throughout his career, Ron supported numerous state and national organizations. His work in Rural Crime Prevention earned recognition from the Michigan State Police for outstanding leadership and contributions to statewide crime-prevention efforts. He was awarded the Honorary State FFA Degree in 1982 and served on the US–Canada International Joint Commission Subcommittee, Nonpoint Source Water Quality from 1985-1990. He was a participant in the 1987–1988 Department of Natural Resources Leadership Institute and served on the Michigan Tax Information Council Board.

In 1989, Ron was named a State Friend of Extension in recognition of his exceptional public service to the Michigan Cooperative Extension Service. MSU Extension also honored him for his contributions to the 4-H Capitol Experience programs in 1998 and 2002. 

Ron received one of his most meaningful professional honors in 2001—the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine Partnership Award—for his instrumental efforts in securing funding for the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health. Known for his credibility with legislators and tireless advocacy, he brought together industry leaders, lawmakers, and university stakeholders to advance critical work in animal health and disease prevention.

Ron was also an active member of the First Congregational Church of Portland, where he served in various leadership roles throughout the years.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Alta Nelson; infant brother, Arnold Nelson; in-laws, Merrill and Alverne Eady; and granddaughter, Marissa Meyers. He is survived by his wife, Betty; his son, Roger of Wixom; his daughter, Karen (Tory) Meyers of Portland; grandsons Blake and Trent Meyers; and granddog, Maizey. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Carl (Sandy) Eady of Grant, as well as several cousins, nieces & nephews.

If you asked Ron how to sum up his life he would say “about average”.

Arrangements are being handled by Lehman Funeral Homes of Portland. Memorial services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the First Congregational Church of Portland, 421 E. Bridge St., Portland, MI. The family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., prior to the service. A luncheon will be served at the church following the service, all are welcome to attend. Memorial donations can be made to the First Congregational Church of Portland.

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