LOUISVILLE, KY — Robert Jeffrey Nelson, 58, of Louisville, Ky., passed away after a long battle with cancer at his home on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2013.

He was born on Oct. 22, 1954 in South Portland, son of Raymond C. and Frances J. Nelson of Sebago.

Robert, “Bob” to friends and family, joined the U.S. Marines at the age of 17, in 1971. He was awarded “most physically fit” in boot camp and was also meritoriously promoted to PFC in boot camp. He reenlisted and reached the rank of sergeant. He graduated from the University of LaVerne with a degree in Business Administration, and Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School in New Jersey.

He was a devoted father and his love for his son, Jeffrey, was endless.

Bob enjoyed researching genealogy and considered himself to be the family historian. He loved music and was gifted with a melodic voice participating in many choirs in his youth. He also enjoyed computers, gadgets, technology and creating stained glass. In his younger years, Bob was a physical fitness nut, who also enjoyed deep sea diving and flying.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Robert Nelson; his siblings, Patti N. Andrews of Brentwood, N.H., Darlene N. Varian of Westbrook, Linda N. Gardiner of Newburgh and Raymond J. Nelson of Sebago; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be scheduled and held in Maine in the near future.

Donations can be made in his memory to the Lymphoma Research Foundation (https://community.lymphoma.org/donatenow)