Nelson D. Bradshaw

ORANGE- Nelson D. Bradshaw, 77, of Congress Street, died peacefully early Friday morning, February 2, 2024 at home surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Greenfield on June 15, 1946, he was the son of Wilbur F. and Virginia (Nye) Bradshaw and grew up in Orange, graduating from Ralph C. Mahar Regional School in 1964. While at Mahar, he was a member of the first ever undefeated championship soccer team at Mahar. This was acknowledged with a banner that now hangs in the gym.

Following Mahar, Nelson attended Franklin Institute in Boston where he earned a drafting certificate.

In 1978, Nelson married Bonnie (Lynch) and have enjoyed over 45 years of marriage.

Nelson was employed by the L. S. Starrett Co. for 36 years as a screw machine operator before retiring.

A devoted father and grandfather, Nelson loved going to all the kids’ local sporting events. He had enjoyed motorcycles, word search puzzles, fishing and taking care of his yard. A skilled craftsman working with wood, he made many fine pieces and a great carpenter.

Nelson and Bonnie enjoyed their camp in Vermont on Lake Champlain..

With his love for motorcycling, Nelson was a member of the Mass Riders and had served as President and Vice President and was very active in the charity work the club did.

Survivors include his loving wife, Bonnie Bradshaw of Orange; his children, Cari Rich and her husband, Kent, of Orange, Nikki Leadbetter and her husband, Chad, of Athol, Michael Payne and his wife, Maureen, of South Carolina, and Ken Payne and his wife, Angela, of Arizona; nine grandchildren, Owen Rich, Megan Rich, Nelson Leadbetter, Abby Leadbetter, Kalli Payne, Emily Payne, Jarrid Tweedly, David Mistretta, and Natasha Ledoux. Nelson was predeceased by his sister, Pamela Boucher; leaves a sister, Sharon Bradshaw of Wendell, a brother, Lorin Bradshaw and his wife, Debbie, of Orange; a brother in law, Robert Boucher; several nephews and nieces; along with many friends.

There are no calling hours or formal services.

A celebration of life will be held at the Orange American Legion, 40 Daniel Shays Highway, Orange, of Saturday, February 10, 2024 from 12 noon until 3 p.m.

Donations in Nelson's memory can be made to the Town of Athol, memo- NQ Animal Control/Nelson Bradshaw, c/o Athol Police Dept., 280 Exchange Street, Athol, MA 01331.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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