John A. Nilsen of East Hampton, formerly of Cobalt, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2017.  John was predeceased by his loving wife of more than fifty years, Elaine G. Nilsen. John was a veteran of WWII. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy submarine service at just 17 years old and trained in diesel engines. John served on the Argonaut SS-475 submarine as Fireman Second Class and later trained submarine firemen in New London. John was a very talented craftsman with both machines and wood.  He was employed at Portland Boat Works, was an independent carpenter and painter, and in his later years worked as Project Manager for Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance. During his life John gave back to his community through various clubs and organizations.  John was past president of the Haddam Neck Fair Association, was on the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Union Hill Cemetery Association, and was a scoutmaster for Troop 8. John is survived by his son Jay Nilsen (Vickey Beauregard), his daughter Vicki Wasserman (Alan) with whom he made his home, his grandsons David Wasserman (Katie), Scott Wasserman (Meghan), Jack Nilsen, his brother Harry W. Nilsen and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at the Haddam Neck Congregational Church, 408 Quarry Hill Road, Haddam Neck on Saturday August 26th at 11:00 AM.   There are no calling hours.  A private burial will be held with family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in John’s memory to Haddam Neck Congregational Church 408 Quarry Hill Rd. Haddam Neck, CT or Middlesex Hospital Homecare – Hospice and Palliative Care 28 Crescent Street, Middletown, CT 06457. To leave online condolences please visit www.spencerfuneralhomeinc.com.

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