NELLES, Stephen Robert

1959-2021. It is with profound sadness that we mark the sudden passing of Stephen Robert Nelles. Predeceased by beloved parents, Malcom Kenyon Nelles and Christine Sheila Nelles; survived by his wife, Kathleen Mcconnell; and his sisters, Celia Blakey (Stan) and Kate Gammal (Paul); uncle to Phillip, Alexander, Duncan and Claire. Born and raised in Ottawa, Stephen attended Lakefield College School, where an award for perseverance in overcoming learning challenges is presented each year in his name. He graduated from the Canadian Coast Guard College and had a long career as a navigation officer with the Canadian Coast Guard. That, coupled with his love of sailing, drew Stephen to make his home in the Maritimes living in both Sambro Head and Fredericton, N.B. Stephen was most comfortable outdoors; he began sailing solo at age four on Lac Bernard and went on to make numerous Atlantic crossings by tall ship. He loved horseback riding, skiing, exploring Canada by dirt bike, canoeing, mountain biking and walking his pack of dogs. He also had a quiet(er), gentle side with a passion for books, a brilliant, dry wit and an encyclopedic knowledge of all things "Stephen". Gone too soon, but free from suffering. A memorial service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre.