Rex Allen Nelson passed away peacefully at DeKalb County Rehab & Nursing Center on March 4, 2023.

He was born April 27, 1929. He was the son of Floyd and Gladys (Wallin) Nelson. He was married to Bonnie Gustafson for 70 years, until her passing in August 2022.

Rex is survived by his three children, Brad (Malorie) Nelson of Kingston, Cynthia (Kris) Swangren of Rockford and Randy (Teri) Nelson of Genoa, seven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, his sister Phyllis Takayama of Michigan, brother-in-law Curt Gustafson of Belvidere, sister-in-law Barb Gustafson of Genoa, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Kenny and Ole (Floyd, Jr) Nelson, and his sister, Donna Nelson.

Rex grew up in Kingston, Illinois, graduated from Kingston High School in 1947 and he attended University of Illinois University at Galesburg. During WWII, he was called back home from college to work and manage the family farm. He enjoyed being with family, friends, and playing with his beloved dogs. For many years, he was a part-time Auctioneer with the Floit-Nelson Auction Service. He enjoyed fishing and numerous sport activities.  He not only played sports, but also coached many local baseball teams. He played on the Genoa Merchants and was a member of the Old Timers League. He was always an active member of the community. Rex served on many boards, including: the Farm Service Agency, the Genoa-Kingston Board of Education as president, and 40 years as president of the Genoa-Kingston Fire and Rescue Board. He was a lifetime farmer and member of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau.

Those who knew Rex, enjoyed his sense of humor, his willingness to serve his community, and his ability to always lend a hand to friends and family in need.

A memorial fund has been established in Rex's honor through Butala Funeral Homes in Genoa. The funds will be divided between the G-K Fire and Rescue Squad and The Barn on Baseline.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 11th from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Slater-Butala Funeral Home, 132 W. Main St., Genoa, IL.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com