Matthew H. Nilsen, 91, of Bricktown, passed away Wednesday at his home. Born in Elizabeth, NJ he was a proud Veteran of WWII, serving in the Navy from 1943 to 1946. He participated in combat operations in the South Pacific theater, serving on the USS Mormacsea and USS Shenandoah. Matthew was the owner and operator of Nilsen Detective Agency in Elizabeth. He held a pilot's license for both fixed wing and rotary aircraft. He was proud member of the Freemasons, Elks, 200 Club and Junior Achievement Association. Was was past President of the Family Motor Coach Association and loved to travel. He was a life member of the Veterans of foreign Wars Post #1838 in Manasquan. Matthew was a former Union County Freeholder and once ran for Mayor in Elizabeth. He was an iconic figure in Union County and Elizabeth politics and business.
Mr. Nilsen was predeceased by his loving wife Margaret (Peggy) Nilsen of 42 years, his mother and father, Catherine (Nee Reining) Nilsen, Matthew Nilsen Sr, his sister Doris Fagen and son Richard Nilsen. He is survived by his son Kent Nilsen and grand daughter Alysia Nilsen and many nieces, nephews and cousins including Debbie Nilsen Colecchio, his primary care-taker.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation Sunday November 6, 1-4 PM at Orender Family Home for funerals, 2643 Old Bridge Road, Manasquan. Interment will be on Monday morning 11 am at Hollywood Cemetery, Union NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Manasquan VFW Post #1838 Building Improvement Fund, 30 Ridge Ave., Manasquan, NJ 08736. To send condolences to the family or obtain directions to the funeral home please visit www.orenderfamilyhome.com
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