Robert J. Nelson

ALTAMONT – Robert J. “Rob” Nelson, 63, of Altamont, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at Massachusetts General Hospital. Rob was born in Albany, the son of the late Edwin S. and Jean C. Strube Nelson. He lived in the area all his life. Rob was a graduate of Guilderland Central High School and the Florida Institute of Technology. He was an airline pilot and got his start in flying with Mall Airways and then went on to work for American Airlines for many years. Sadly, Rob had to leave his beloved career in flying due to a heart issue. He was then was employed by Delaware Engineering for many years. He was a heart transplant survivor of 17 years. Rob enjoyed boating, especially on the Thousand Islands, skiing, snowmobiling, and playing pickle ball. He also enjoyed serving as a pit man for Keith Slavin at the Accord Speedway.

Rob is survived by his life partner Donna DiCarlo of Albany; his children Trevor E. Nelson of Altamont, and Rebecca C. Hankle (Shawn) of Nassau; his brother William Nelson of Dania Beach, FL; his grandchildren Charlotte and Sawyer Hankle; Donna’s children Richard Maney (Brianne), Nicole Linacre (Michael), and Olivia DiCarlo. He was predeceased by his sister Barbara LaJeunesse.

Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany on Friday morning, May 23rd, at 10:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Donate Life America. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .