Nov 20, 1958 — Oct 19, 2026
Leawood, KS
Carl Bradford “Brad” Nelson passed away on October 19, 2026, in Leawood, Kansas, at the age of 67. He was born on November 20, 1958, in Newton, Massachusetts.
Brad lived a life marked by devotion to family, pride in his work, and joy in the everyday moments that brought people together. He attended the University of Kentucky, where he served as president of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and he remained a loyal supporter of the university throughout his life. He especially loved sports, cheering passionately for the Kansas City Chiefs and of course for his favorite college team, the University of Kentucky.
Professionally, Brad worked for several years as a Vice President Senior Loan Officer. He found real meaning in helping people purchase their first homes, and he took genuine excitement in seeing families prepare to begin a new chapter of their life. That sense of care for others was part of who he was, and it showed not only in his career, but in the way he lived each day.
Brad was a loving father to his children and a wonderful grandfather to his grandson. He expressed his love in thoughtful, practical ways, always making sure the refrigerator and pantry were stocked with his family’s favorite foods and drinks, and made sure everything was in its place and ready for when they needed it. He loved coaching his children and their teams in basketball, making sure he was able to spend as much time with them as possible and providing his encouragement in their endeavors. His children also remember with affection how excited he would become in winter when the pond began to freeze. He would take a pump and cycle the water to make sure the ice became thick enough for them to skate safely, turning a cold season into a cherished family memory.
He found happiness in many interests and pastimes. Brad enjoyed the peaceful and tranquil time he spent golfing. He loved gardening and took pleasure in growing his own fruits and vegetables for his family to enjoy. He was also a fantastic cook, especially when it came to barbecue. His brisket and pulled pork were especially memorable, and he delighted in bold spice and spicy flavors, which he happily worked into his cooking. Barbecue was more than a meal to him; it was also a community and a craft. He took part in barbecue contests, though he especially enjoyed serving as a judge of the competition. Brad was also very proud of his Swedish background, a heritage he carried with pride throughout his life.
Above all, Brad will be remembered for his warmth, his enthusiasm, and the many ways he cared for the people around him. He is survived by his wife, Kelly Nelson; his daughters, Liz (Blair Cragg) Nelson and Maggie (Garrett) Nelson Littrell; his sons, Carl (Bridgett) Nelson and Christopher “Topher” Nelson; his grandson, Carl “JP” Nelson; his father, Rev. Carl Roger Nelson; and his sister, Karen (Brent Esmoil) Nelson. He was preceded in death by his mother, LaVonne Nelson.
A visitation will be held on November 5, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Rd, Leawood, Kansas 66206. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the church.
Brad’s life was one of steady love, generous care, and deep enjoyment of family, food, friendship, and home. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Obituary published by Muehlebach Funeral Care.
