Vallen Nelson

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Vallen Leroy Nelson, a cherished member of the Joplin community, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at the age of 70. He was born on April 15, 1954, in Joplin, Missouri, to the late Carl and Mildred (Gust) Nelson.

Vallen dedicated over five decades to a successful career in sales, retiring from St. Joe Distributing after 52 years of working in sales. His work ethic and charisma left a lasting impression on his colleagues and clients alike. Even after retirement, he continued to engage with the industry, taking on a part-time role at Cheyenne International, where his experience and knowledge were greatly valued.

His devotion to Jesus was his truest passion. He aimed to serve in any aspect he could over the years from mowing acres of church property, to discipling and baptizing many into the Christian faith, cleaning the church after hours, and even being a minister for Racine Baptist Church for several years. Vallen's love for sharing his faith knew no bounds, and he found joy in witnessing to anyone who crossed his path.

An avid outdoorsman, Vallen was renowned in the coon dog hunting community. His expertise and fairness as a judge and showman for both UKC and AKC world shows earned him respect and admiration. His passion for the sport was matched only by his love for comic books, a collection he curated with great care over the years. Vallen's hands were rarely still, as he found excitement in restoring old muscle cars with his boys.

Vallen is survived by his loving wife, Katharine Nelson; children, Jaymey Boston (James), Chris Nelson (Michelle), Lindsay Balcom (Nathan), Matthew Judah (Kirsten), Nathan Judah (Aida), Cody Nelson, and Jaxon Nelson; 15 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sister, Christina Beaver (Alan); 2 nieces and 1 nephew, Samantha Nelson, Cassandra Cartwright (Sean), and Aaron Beaver (Kristina); brother-in-law, Bill Baxter; and niece, Stephanie Baxter (of the late Brad Baxter). Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter Jennifer Nelson, and sister Carlene Dyer, nephews and niece- Austin Phillips, Montana, and Chasidi Dyer.

A funeral service is planned for Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Calvary Chapel of Joplin at 4899 E. 7th Street. A burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City, MO. Those honoring Vallen’s life by serving as pallbearers are Chris Nelson, Matthew Judah, Nathan Judah, Cody Nelson, Jaxon Nelson, Alan Beaver, James Boston, and Nathan Balcom. Honorary pallbearers include Aaron Beaver, James Boston, Jr., Jesse Udell, Noah Cartwright, and Keaghan Hancock.

The family invites friends out for a time of visitation on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m at Thornhill- Dillon Mortuary in Joplin, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jaxon Nelson’s college fund.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Thornhill- Dillon Mortuary in Joplin, MO.