Nelson Raymond Klispie, 85, of Punta Gorda, Florida passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2013.

He was born in Hamburg, New York to Francis and Marie (nee Gern) Klispie and moved to Punta Gorda 20 years ago from there where he still considers Hamburg his hometown. Nelson was an incredibly talented man who enjoyed varied interests throughout his lifetime. As a WWII veteran he proudly served in Seoul, Korea as a punch card operator until his honorable discharge from the US Army in 1947. For his honorable service he was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. In the early years, Nelson was an avid pilot who enjoyed the adventures of flight. He was the president and owner of American Septic Tank Service in Hamburg until his retirement in 1980. The Hamburg Auxiliary Police benefited from his assistance in several capacities for many years. As a proud member of the NRA and instructor at the Hamburg Rod and Gun Club, he was noted for his incredible target marksmanship. Many friends and family knew Nelson for his extraordinary card and billiard skills. Most recently, he was the vice president of the Charlotte County Woodcarvers Association where he loved helping others perfect their skills. His talents secured him with the prestigious recognition of Master Carver. He enjoyed countless hours creating beautiful wood masterpieces that were admired by friends and strangers alike. He will be fondly remembered by his friends from the organizations and clubs he enjoyed and supported.

Nelson is survived by his wife of 62 years, Lorraine; 2 sons, Kevin (Lin) Klispie of Hamburg, NY and Wayne (dear friend Sharon Rote) Klispie of Punta Gorda, FL; a daughter, Gayle (Marc) Battaglini of Syracuse, NY; 2 grandchildren, Lisa (Kevin) Petronio of North Tonawanda, NY and Riley Battaglini of Syracuse, NY; 4 sisters, Carole (late John) Delaney, Mary Lou (late Glen) Potter, Ruth Mussehl and Alice (Nicholas) Hofmann.

A Private Graveside Service with military honors was held at Sarasota National Cemetery by the family. In lieu of flowers and memorial contributions, the family asks that all who knew Nelson remember him fondly as you enjoy the wonders of nature’s beauty as he did.

Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Punta Gorda Chapel.