Gary W. Nelson

Gary W. Nelson, 84, Casselton, ND died on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at Essentia Health, Fargo, ND.

Gary Wayne Nelson was born June 29, 1933 in Page, ND to Edward and Elfreda (Matthiesen) Nelson. He grew up on the family farm and attended country school graduating from Ayr (ND) High School in 1951. Gary enlisted in the US Navy and served from 1952 to 1956. He married Dorene Mundt on Dec. 18, 1954 in California. After his discharge, he worked in San Diego for a short period before they returned to Ayr where they farmed until retiring in 1998. They enjoyed winters in Arizona for 25 years and moved into Casselton in 2013.

Gary was a life-long member of the Erie (ND) American Legion. They were members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ayr until its closing at which time they joined Martin's Lutheran Church. Gary was an avid baseball player in his youth and a regular golfer as an adult. He was active in the community and served on multiple township, church and legion boards. He later served on the Central Cass School Board where he served as President.

He is survived by his wife, Dorene; four sons, Don (Fran) of Gilbert, AZ, Dean (Theresa) of Portland, ND, Darrell of Tulsa, OK and Dale of Casselton; 8 grandchildren, Kris (Alicia), Erin (Marc) Mehagan, Brent (Megan), Kyle, Riley (Meghan), Lauren, Kelsie and Ryan; 6 great grandchildren, Olivia, Elle and Piper Mehagan, Kendall, Grady and Quinn Nelson; two brothers-in-law, Erling Linde and Dallas Mundt; sister-in-law, Lois Nelson; and several nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and three sisters.

Visitation: Wednesday, June 13, 2018 from 5 to 7 PM with a prayer service at 7 PM at Martin's Lutheran Church, Casselton.

Funeral: Thursday at 10:30 AM at Martin's Lutheran Church with visitation one hour prior.

Burial: Erie (ND) Cemetery.

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