Nelson Gabbert McBride, age 77 of Grand Rapids, passed away Friday, May 30, 2014 from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. He was born and raised in Ft. Wayne, IN the only child of Walter H and Lois Gabbert McBride who predeceased him. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force and then settled in Grand Rapids Michigan while attending Ferris State Institute. Nelson married the love of his life, Susan Doody, on July 29, 1966, who survives. Also surviving are the joys of his life, sons Joseph (Angela) of Grand Rapids and John of Columbus, OH. He was blessed with three grandchildren, Cameron, Jolee and Makenna. Nelson was an avid toy train collector and was instrumental in assembling the Christmas train display at Breton Village Mall. He loved cars and was a big fan of NASCAR. A Memorial Service will take place Tuesday 2:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst-Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Rev. Troy Nevins officiating. The family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorials in Nelson’s name may be made to the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or Mary and Martha Center, 1845 Boston S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49506
