Nelson, John O.
Our beloved, hard-working, good-humored dad and longtime resident of Crystal, at the age of 89 years, joined his bride, Betty, on Nov. 13, 2015. Born in Upland, California on May 20, 1926, his wonderful "mum," Athelia(Tillie) soon moved John and his brother, Earl, while still very young, back to Minnesota where she was raised on her parents' homesteaded farm in Stevens County, near Chokio, Minnesota. In Minnesota they would change their Family name back to Nelson, his mother's maiden name of wonderful parents who emigrated from Norway. John enlisted into the U.S. Army while in high school and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Army Infantry. His strong, penetrating voice was recognized as effective for calling out marching commands and he also enjoyed playing the bugle. He served in both the European and Pacific theatres transport divisions. His Decorations and Citations included: European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with Bronze Battle Star, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army of Occupation Medal Japan. John was a member of the Minneapolis Rowing club and an article was found written by sports writer Sid Hartman about one of his rowing team's exciting wins! He met Betty while at the Minnesota School of Business and his business degree led to a long career within the transportation industry including employment with the B&O Railroad, Consolidated Freightways, Ringsby, and Overnight Transportation. Upon retirement he went back to work for many years for the Minneapolis Auto Auction. His family was his world and he greatly enjoyed early morning golf outings with family and friends at Majestic Oaks, Hollydale, Lakeview, and Green Haven golf courses. John is proceeded in death by his mother, Tillie; wife, Betty; son-in-law, Paul; grandson, Christopher; he is survived by children, Bradley Nelson(Debby), Valerie Nelson Swenson, Keith Nelson(Leslie); grandchildren, Tracy, Joshua, Katelyn(Nick), Andrew, Eric, Casey; brother, Earl; nephews, David and Lee. Funeral service Mon 11/23, 11:00am, Elim Lutheran Church, 3978 W Broadway Ave, Robbinsdale. Visitation 1 hour prior to the service.
Visitation
Elim Lutheran Church
3978 W Broadway Ave
Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Monday, November 23, 2015
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Service
Elim Lutheran Church
3978 W. Broadway Avenue
Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Monday, November 23, 2015
11:00 AM
Cemetery
Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center Columbarium
2800 Curve Crest Boulevard
Stillwater, MN 55082
Tuesday, November 24, 2015