Timothy John Nelson, aged 60, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, following a five-year battle with cancer. He was at home, surrounded by family during his final moments. Born on May 29, 1965, in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of Joan Marie (Nielsen) and the late John Francis Nelson.
Growing up in Lowell, Massachusetts, Tim attended the Franco American School and graduated from the Greater Lowell Vocational High School in 1983, where he was part of the football team and focused on power mechanics. He became an Enfield-certified diesel mechanic and worked in the construction industry until the market downturn in the late 1980s. Following this, he served as a custodian for the City of Lowell school department until his early retirement.
Tim was known for his dedication and meticulous nature in all aspects of his life. He took immense pride in his home, his truck, and, most importantly, his family. Known for his willingness to lend a hand, he often plowed snow for neighbors and friends, shared his tools, and assisted anyone in need. He would often say, “Work smarter, not harder,” although he sometimes found it hard to resist putting in extra effort.
On November 19, 1988, Tim married his beloved wife, Catherine Francis (Hamel) Nelson. The couple raised four children—Jason, Steven, Sara, and Michael—initially in Tyngsborough before relocating to Pepperell in 2001. Together, the family enjoyed numerous activities, including camping, fishing, and traveling to places like Searsport, Pittsburg, Mt. Rushmore, Washington, D.C., Ireland, and St. Lucia.
Tim was diagnosed with lung cancer over four years ago. Despite undergoing various treatments and visiting the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, he maintained his light-hearted spirit and resilience throughout his illness. His family expressed deep gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the Dana Farber team.
A proud member of the recovery community, Tim was a friend of Bill W. for over 16 years. He is survived by his wife of over 36 years, Catherine Nelson, and their children: Jason Nelson of Shirley, Steven Nelson and partner Kasey Huuskonen of Springfield, daughter Sara Costigan and husband James of Worcester, and son Michael Nelson of Pepperell. He is also survived by his mother, Joan Nelson of Lowell, his sister Christie Ferguson and husband Wayne of Lowell, and close friend Stephen Bridges of Pepperell.
Visitation will occur at the McGaffigan Funeral Home, located at 37 Main Street (Rte. 113) in Pepperell, Massachusetts, on Thursday, September 11, from 17:00 to 20:00. The evening will conclude with a time of remembrance for family and friends.
In memory of Tim, the family plans to make a charitable donation to Dana Farber through their Gene Display project. They are also accepting donations toward a memorial Gene dedicated to Tim, with all funds supporting cancer research and patient care. For more information, visit www.McGaffiganFuneral.com.
