Nelson Zinser

Nelson Keith “Smiley” Zinser, 80, of Newport, died Wednesday, April 18, 2018 surrounded by his family at Marietta Memorial Hospital.

Nelson was born April 18, 1938 in Huntington, WV to Ralph Clark and Avildia Catherine Zinser.

He attended Parkersburg High School and graduated from Grafton High School in 1957. Nelson was a Vietnam veteran of the United States Navy and served in the reserves following his active duty.

He married Sarah Opal Lough on April 13, 1963.

Nelson was a longtime employee of Sperry Rand and Kardex Systems. He was a member of Newport United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir and served as the Sunday School Superintendent.  He was an avid stamp and coin collector.

Nelson will be deeply missed by his wife Sarah Opal; son Nelson L. Zinser Sr.; daughter Vickie Hilverding (Rodney Stimpert); grandsons Nelson L. Zinser Jr., Justin Zinser, Nathan Zinser, Noah Hilverding, Bryce Hilverding, Jaden Zinser; granddaughter Ciara Hilverding; great-grandson Landon Zinser; brother Ralph Elihew (Jean) Zinser; sisters Delores (Dave) Lough and Ethel Zinser; many brothers and sisters-in-law and their families; beloved pets Katie, Chi Chi and Tiger.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, brother Herbert “Herbie” Zinser and sister Mary Walker.

The family would like to thank Stonerise Home Health and Hospice for their years of wonderful care and also First Choice Home Care for their kindness and service over the last few months.

Friends may call Friday, April 20th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Roberts Funeral Home-East Lawn Chapel, 27880 St. Rt. 7, Marietta.  Funeral services will be Saturday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastors Herb Alexander, from Stonerise at Home Hospice and David Wayne Knotts, her nephew officiating.  Burial will be at East Lawn Memorial Park, where military rites will be held.   Memorial contributions may be made to Stonerise Hospice, 700 Chappell Rd, Charleston, WV 25304 or the Newport Volunteer Fire Department P.O. Box 188, Newport, OH 45768.