Clayton O. Nelson

Clayton “Clay” O. Nelson, 77, of Onalaska, WI, peacefully passed away at home on Friday, July 3, 2026, while surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Clay was born in La Crosse, WI, on October 1, 1948, to Clinton and Marian Nelson.

Staying local, Clay completed his high school education at Central High School in 1966. He pursued higher education at UW-L, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. Soon after, he enrolled at WWTC and obtained a degree in computer programming. Following in her father's footsteps, his daughter Carrie also graduated from UW-L with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry.

Throughout much of Clay's life, he held a position as a merchandiser at Degen-Berglund Pharmacies located in La Crosse and Witt's Pharmacies in Minnesota. Eventually, he concluded his career as a warehouse manager at Charter Communications before retiring.

On November 11, 1977, Clay married Pamela Kapaem, the love of his life, and in 2026, they would have marked their 59th wedding anniversary. Clay and Pam built a family, raising their two kids, Carrie and Chad.

Throughout his life, Clay engaged in various activities, ranging from the Boy Scouts—where he ultimately achieved the rank of Eagle Scout—to being involved with the Civil Air Patrol. Later on, he took on a leadership role in the Boy Scouts alongside his son, Chad. They shared numerous camping adventures, including trips to Boundary Waters. Clay was also recognized as a loyal supporter of Chad’s journey toward recovery and sobriety. He also found great joy in attending all of his daughter Carrie's sporting and musical events while she was growing up, taking immense pride in her achievements both personally and professionally.

Clay had a deep passion for motorcycling. Together with his father, they constructed a drag bike that he raced at Amber Green Raceway for numerous years. Clay enjoyed a range of beloved hobbies and leisure activities, including constructing and flying model planes, racing homing pigeons, hunting, playing golf, bowling, and traveling.

Clay is survived by his wife, Pam Nelson; his daughter, Carrie (Chuck) Dillon; and his grandchildren, Brittny (Noelle) Youngren, Emma (Jalen) Walker, Sara Dillon, and Riley Nelson. He is also survived by his two great-granddaughters, Aubree and Sophia Walker.

Preceding Clay in death is his son, Chad Nelson; his parents, Clinton and Marian Nelson; both paternal and maternal grandparents; numerous aunts and uncles; his in-laws, stepfather-in-law; and his dear friend, Maggie.

The family wishes to express heartfelt appreciation to the doctors and nurses at Mayo La Crosse, Onalaska, and Rochester, with a special mention for Agrace Hospice, particularly for the support provided by Tuesday, Jodi, Miranda, Elizabeth, Lisa, and Lindsey during end-of-life care. Their loving and exceptional care maintained his dignity and created a peaceful and comfortable dying experience. The family cherished each caregiver from Agrace Hospice as their own. Their grace and sensitivity significantly impacted the family’s lives. They will always be grateful.

Clay was an honorable friend to many and a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Clay requested a Celebration of Life, which will be planned for a future date. He asked that friends and family concentrate less on grief and more on fond remembrances.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Memorials may be sent to Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home in La Crosse, directed to the family to distribute to several charities and supportive programs.