ISHPEMING – Brandon Nelson, local composer, will be hosting a Celebration of Life from 3 p.m. through 6 p.m. at the Mather Inn today. Earlier this year Nelson was diagnosed with terminal Stage IV retroperitoneal angiosarcoma. Nelson seeks to host this Celebration of Life to meet with friends and family, to share stories and celebrate his life as a part of his “final mission” project.

“This event is not only designed to celebrate Brandon’s life in a way in which he can participate too, but also to help raise a little money to make sure his family is well cared for when he passes,” said Becky Nelson, Brandon’s wife. “Not having a pension or substantial savings and still being relatively young, any amount you are able to give would be most helpful and welcome. You are invited to bring cards with money to go towards Brandon’s Legacy Fund. Other fundraising opportunities will be added as we get closer to the Celebration. Let’s have a great big turnout as we come together to celebrate Brandon’s life.”

Midtown Bakery will be catering light snacks and beverages will be available, there is no admission and all are welcomed.

“Most of us are familiar with the idea of having folks get together after a funeral to discuss memories of the deceased and to celebrate their life,” said Becky Nelson. “Well, why not do that while the person yet to be deceased is still alive and able to participate and enjoy it? So, we would like to invite all of Brandon’s friends and family to take part in this very special event being put on by his family and UP Home, Health, and Hospice! Come have a good time with friends and family while we celebrate Brandon’s life full of love and accomplishment.”

Brandon Nelson seeks to grow the Youtube page that features his original compositions, and in doing so create revenue to help support his family once he passes.

“Something in my own mind said, ‘I don’t know exactly how long I have left, but I don’t want to spend it crying all the time or feeling bad all the time,'” Brandon Nelson said. “You’re faced with what you are leaving behind. I guess I’m definitely leaving music so I should probably turn that into something that is not only an aesthetic benefit, but a material benefit to my wife and children.”

Nelson will also be hosting a string of concerts and composing music throughout the year as a part of his final mission.

“That’s the main part of what I do,” said Nelson.

Various bands across the U.P. will be playing Nelson’s music, most importantly will be the Marquette City Band this upcoming summer. A date has yet to be set for that concert. Nelson’s website and social media is able to stay updated on upcoming works as well as art and music created by Nelson, which is able for purchase, the website is bnelsonmusic.wordpress.com.

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.