NEW SWEDEN, Maine – Boyd Lee Nelson, 67, died unexpectedly February 19, 2018, at his New Sweden residence.
He was born August 24, 1950, the son of the late Hartley and Thelma (Nickerson) Nelson.
He was educated in New Sweden and Caribou schools, and was a 1968 graduate of Caribou High School. Following graduation Boyd proudly served in the U.S. Navy and upon returning home was employed at Loring AFB Civil Engineering Department as a carpenter. Following the closure of Loring, he worked at the Winter Harbor Naval Station until its closure in 2002. In 2002, Boyd retired from Civil Service and returned home to New Sweden to care for his mother until her passing. Boyd was an avid reader of military history and was always ready to volunteer anywhere he was needed. He will be remembered for his time as the director of the First Baptist Church of New Sweden Food Pantry.
Boyd saw that no one went hungry, going the extra mile to deliver food to those who could not get to the pantry. People will fondly remember seeing Boyd during this time on his daily walks collecting cans and bottles along the roads in New Sweden using these funds to help keep the food pantry van on the road and reducing expenses for the pantry. When Boyd’s time at the food pantry in New Sweden was over he became a valuable volunteer at Catholic Charities in Caribou. Boyd again saw that no one went hungry. He did pick-ups of food, delivered food and even helped with the harvesting of vegetables. Many customers, employees and volunteers of the Caribou location will remember Boyd’s booming voice, smiling face and helping hands. He made many special friends there including a special friend Floyd Quist. Boyd was an active member of the Perkins-Plourde Post #136 American Legion Stockholm, where he served as past historian and was currently a member of the rifle squad, funeral detail and also oversaw kitchen operations for all events at the post. As one member noted “the post has lost a kingpin of the organization.” He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Woodland.
Boyd is survived by his brother, Bruce and wife, Paula Nelson, of Pembroke; as well as their children and grandchildren; his aunt, Carola Nickerson of Wesley; and several cousins. Boyd will be missed by his lifelong friend, Sheldon Akerson and his wife, Patti, of Perham.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at the New Sweden Cemetery at a date and time to be announced by the Mockler Funeral Home, 24 Reservoir Street, Caribou, Maine. Those wishing to remember Boyd in a special way may do so to the Dalhgren/Skidgel Farm of Home, United Veterans of Maine, 358 Washburn Road, Caribou, Maine 04736. www.mocklerfuneralhome.com.
