Racine – Mark James Nelson, 26, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 20, 2012. Mark was born in Racine on October 2, 1985 to Leroy Nelson and Annette (nee, Bode) Matera. He graduated from Racine Lutheran High School where he played sports receiving many awards for his accomplishments. Mark had a passion for football. Not only did he love playing sports, he loved watching sports, especially the Packers and Brewers. Most of all he loved his family and was very loyal to his friends. Mark is survived by his father, Leroy Nelson; mother, Annette (Victor) Matera; maternal grandparents, Richard and Doris Bode; brother, Jeff Nelson; step-sister, Donna Morgenson; step-brother, Michael Matera; and his aunts and uncles, Joel (Judy) Bode, Daniel (Beth) Bode, Don (Annette) Nelson, Jerry (Wendy) Nelson, Gail (Don) Mattie, Glen (Debbie) Nelson, Duayne (Gail) Nelson, Paulette Jenrette, Ronald (Teril) Matera, James Matera, John Matera, Victoria (David) Hansen and Donald Matera. Mark is also survived by a niece, nephew, cousins, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Norm and Caroline Nelson; and his aunt, Susie Oman. Funeral services for Mark will be held at St. John Lutheran Church, 1501 Erie Street, on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 6 p.m. with Rev. Daniel B. Quinn officiating. Interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the church on Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. until the time of the service. Memorials may be directed to Racine Lutheran High School Athletic Department or Racine Youth Sports.