Two weeks ago today marked the passing of Davey Nelson, a member of the Brewers family since 2001 and a former Major League All Star infielder. Today, the organization announced plans to honor his memory with a series of initiatives.
Prior to today’s game, there will be a moment of silence to remember Nelson. Additional activities will revolve around the June 21-24 series with the St. Louis Cardinals. The initiatives include:
For years, the FOX Sports Wisconsin stage in Miller Park’s right field was home to Nelson for pre- and post-game shows. On June 23, the stage will become a permanent memorial to Nelson as it will be renamed "Nelly’s Corner." A memorial plaque will be placed there to formally name it in his honor.
Brewers players and coaches will wear a "Nelly" memorial patch on their jersey sleeves for each of the four games against the Cardinals.
Proceeds from the Brewers Community Foundation 50-50 Raffle on Saturday, June 23 will go toward Open Arms Home for Children in South Africa, a charity that has always been close to Nelson’s heart. Fans and friends are encouraged to make a donation in Nelson’s memory at openarmshome.com.
In addition, a private celebration of Davey’s life reception will be held in Miller Park prior to the Saturday, June 23 game. The event will not be open to the public, but media will be invited to attend along with Brewers staff and Nelson’s family and friends. Further details along with an e-vite will be sent later.
"We have been reminded every day of the impact that Davey had on countless individuals, not just in baseball, and not only in our community, but across the globe," said Rick Schlesinger. "It’s our honor to put in place these remembrances, and we will continue work that he did every day to help others."
The celebration of Nelson’s life will continue on Monday, June 25 with the 10th Annual Davey Nelson Celebrity Golf Classic held in Kohler. Though he was battling a long illness, it was Nelson’s wish to carry on with the tournament, and the day promises to be full of many things that he treasured: golf, good food, camaraderie and fundraising for Open Arms and Brewers Community Foundation. To learn more or register for the event, please visit Brewers.com/Davey.
Nelson joined the Brewers in 2001 as roving minor league outfield instructor and became the Major League first base coach for the Brewers in 2003. In 2006, he moved into a broadcasting (FOX Sports Wisconsin analyst) and front office role for the organization. Prior to joining the Brewers, Nelson spent time with the White Sox, A’s, Expos and Indians in coaching roles.
A 10-year Major League veteran, Nelson played from 1968 to '77 as an infielder with the Indians, Senators, Rangers and Royals. In 1973, he was an American League All-Star with Texas as he hit .286 with 43 stolen bases in 142 games.
Nelson served on the board of directors for Open Arms Home for Children in South Africa, an organization that serves as a home to over 50 children who are either orphaned or do not have a stable family situation. His annual golf tournament has helped raise significant funding for the organization.
