Nelson Zackin was born in Waterbury, Connecticut on February 13, 1933 and had a lifelong commitment to Waterbury and the surrounding area. He had an infectious smile, a mischievous grin, and a warm handshake which would be extended to everyone. Nelson was gracious with his time, kind with his words and made all feel special, seen, heard, and respected. He had lifelong friendships from every stage of his life which he valued and thoroughly enjoyed. And the feeling was mutual.

Nelson grew up in the Fulton Park area of Waterbury, and its baseball fields were his playground. From an early age, Nelson organized games with all-comers; everyone was welcome to join - provided they exhibited sportsmanship above all.

Educated at Kingswood and Crosby High Schools, Nelson started his university education at the UCONN branch in Waterbury prior to finishing his degree at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School in 1955.

Nelson dated and subsequently married his teenage sweetheart, Roselyn Lax (z’l), starting a love affair that spanned 61 years of marriage, three children, and three grandchildren. Their partnership was steadfast - borne out of a deep respect, bottomless adoration, and passionate love.

As an accountant, he was engaged in the local business community and gave back to the wider Waterbury community with long-time service on numerous boards, both civic and Jewish. In addition to his accounting practice, he was involved in numerous businesses and enjoyed working on business startups, acquisitions, and helping clients and colleagues with strategic planning.

Nelson was a lifelong athlete. He firmly believed in life-long sports and was happiest paired up with Roz, his partner in all things. He could be found with a big grin on his face the wind in his hair on a sailboat, carving down a ski trail, hitting a tennis ball with topspin, summer swims at Lake Quassapaug, and walks in the woods year-round.

Nelson is survived by three children: Joel Zackin (and Celeste Suggs), Linda Zackin (and Dennis Weeks), and Peter Zackin (and Leslie); three grandchildren Michelle Zackin (and Joshua Fishbien), Benjamin Zackin (and Katie Mihalek), and Daniel Zackin. His family was his pride and joy right up until the end.

His family and friends are thankful for the years of love, grace, generosity, and principled examples that he provided. May his memory be for a blessing.

Funeral services will be held Thursday August 27, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at B’nai Israel Synagogue 444 Main Street North, Southbury, CT 06488. Burial will follow in Beth El Cemetery, Boyden Street in Waterbury. Shiva will be observed at the home of Leslie and Peter Zackin, 9 Diana Drive, Woodbridge, following the burial, with minyan at 6pm, and on Sunday, August 29th from 12pm to 3pm with minyan at 6pm. The family will also be sitting shiva at the home of Joel Zackin and Celeste Suggs, 103 Everit Street, New Haven, on Friday, August 28, from 2pm to 5pm. Memorial contributions may be made to B’nai Israel (bnaiisraelsouthbury.org). The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire 615 South Main Street has care of arrangements.