Nelson Robert Steisslinger

Nelson Robert Steisslinger, 75, of Cocoa, FL, passed away peacefully in his home on May 1, 2026. Nelson was born on November 18, 1950, in Buffalo, NY, to Mildred Annalee and Harvey Robert Steisslinger.

Nelson’s family moved to La Habra, CA in 1958, where he graduated from La Habra High School. While there, he was an avid athlete and musician. Nelson served two tours in the US Navy from 1969 – 1975, aboard the USS Alexander Hamilton (SSBN-617). In 1984, he graduated from Park College, Parksville Missouri, with a Bachelor of Science in Management/Computer Information Systems.

Nelson then worked as a professor of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence for Park College satellite sites, at various Army facilities, where students appreciated his knowledge, experience, and sense of humor.

Nelson was a beloved husband of 52 beautiful years to his wife, Cynthia Steisslinger, and a loving father to his son, Brian Steisslinger and daughter-in-law, Dawn. Nelson is also survived by his mother-in-law, Cecilia Burlinghame, two grandchildren, Nicole and Jack Steisslinger, his sister, Betty-Jean Splaver, his brothers, Martin and Carl Steisslinger, several cousins, nieces and nephews, many friends, and his faithful canine companion, Buttons.

Nelson had a fun-loving disposition and was well known for his humor. If given the option, he’d have lived all his days in shorts and flipflops, traveling the world, riding a motorcycle and flying his RC planes, while spending time with his family. Regardless of what he was doing, it was always his goal to make those around him happy. He was known to make silly faces in order to get his family to laugh out loud at church.

Nelson worked nights, and he was the “stay-at-home-dad”, while Cindi worked days in the Army. During that time, he joined the mom’s group, exchanged recipes, recounted soap operas, and, once again, made the people around him have a great time in his company. He was so loved that those ladies considered Nelson to be their “mascot”. He just wanted to make people smile, laugh, and enjoy themselves.

In respect of Nelson’s last wishes, there will be no formal funeral or Mass. Instead, he will be cremated and laid to rest at Queen of Angels Catholic Cemetery, 1901 Queen of Angels Drive, Winter Park, FL 32792. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Nelson’s honor to the American Diabetes Association, the Parkinson’s Foundation, or the Disabled American Veterans.

Nelson Steisslinger will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His cheerful and good-humored spirit will be remembered fondly.