Gary H. Nelson

Gary H Nelson 92, Christine, ND passed peacefully December 24,2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Gary was born May 8,1933 to Harry Leroy Nelson and Adeline Rose Vixie on the farm in Stephen, MN. He attended school until 4th grade, then when he couldn’t sit still any longer he quit school and proceeded to become a businessman at the young age of 9. He trapped and hunted day and night until the barn wall was covered with so many hides that his dad told him to take them into town to the general store where they would be shipped to Sears and Roebuck fur buyers. He made more money than their family would see in a year, so being generous he gave his folks the money, he had no use for it in the woods. His next batch of furs his dad suggested he buy calves to raise, and so started his life as a young entrepreneur. One of his first calves was bought from a man named George Olson, who was his future wife's father. Gary was 9 years old, Ina Fae was 4 years old.

His neighbor & best friend Tommy Landerville and he spent hours “running the woods” camping out, hunting and trapping. They stayed in touch all the years following until Tommy’s passing on October 19, 2023. Tommy and Judy visited Gary & Ina Fae on several occasions “all the way from California,” they remained very close throughout the years.

Gary grew up on the farm, with 5 siblings, 2 brothers and 3 sisters, he remained very close to all his siblings throughout the years, 2 living in Fargo, ND the rest close by in the Minneapolis, MN area. He learned hard work and ethics from his father and a strong religious belief and kindness from his mother. It would lead to a successful life well lived, filled with honesty and integrity and a large circle of people, friends, neighbors, and business associates.

Gary was called to duty July 24,1953 for the United States Army. He entered boot camp at Camp Gordon, GA upon completion he was stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA with the 436th Military Police Company. He served until he was Honorably discharged on June 13,1955, shortly after the Korean war ended.

He stayed in the state of Washington for a few more years, working in a lumber logging camp, his main job was a chauffeur for the loggers, but he also logged with the crew. He also spent some time working for the railroad while he was out West.

He later returned home to reconnect with his sweetheart Ina Fae Olson, they married in Grand Forks on February 22,1958, shortly after the wedding they moved to Fargo, ND.

He started a very successful construction company in 1958, Gary Nelson Construction, Gary and Ina Fae ran the business together for 40 plus years side by side. It allowed him to dabble in real estate, he owned multiple properties and houses in over 7 states, developing the land and remodeling the homes, he had a keen eye for decorating and landscaping. No weeds grew under his feet, and his faithful wife went along happily. They were truly a beautiful couple, never too far apart from each other and always ready to start a new adventure. No matter where they went, they made new friends, were blessed with the old ones, and whoever met them was changed for life. Gary’s kindness, gentle manner, respect for others and his overwhelming generosity was only exceeded by his beautiful blue eyes and dimpled heartwarming smile. Whenever he bear-hugged you it was sincere and you felt it to your soul. If you had a conversation with him, he was truly interested in what you were doing. He was a blessing to this world and his wife and sidekick Ina Fae was always nearby with her beautiful bright smile and a cup of coffee.

Together they raised 4 children, 2 sons Mark (Teresa) and Chad and 2 daughters Marva (Dan) and Michele, they were blessed with 7 grandchildren, Alisha, Tanner, Lindsey, Karlie, Brandon, Dakotah, Gary and 3 great grandchildren Olivia, Bennett and Callan.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, 1 brother, 3 sisters, many in-laws, cousins and friends.

He is survived by his 4 children, 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, and one brother.

A great big thank you goes out to Sanford's downtown 3rd floor Doctors and Nurses for the comfort given above and beyond duty in his last few weeks.

Thank you so much for his fine care from his PCP, Oncologist, Radiologist, his many doctors and nurses, the Home Instead Care Pros and Staff, the Riverview Assisted Living Staff, Nurses, Cooks and Rehabilitation team. You cared for him like he was your own. Thank You.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to a wildlife fund of your choice, plant a tree in his name, or send contributions and they will be donated in your name to a wildlife fund in his memory. He loved the outdoors and everywhere he went he made the land better for others. If you wish to honor him go for a walk in nature in memory.

Casual attire for the services.

Mail cards to: Gary Nelson Memorial, 17427 56 ½ St SE, Christine, ND 58015

A huge “Thank You” to the staff at West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center. Couldn’t have honored him this well without you.

Visitation: Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND.

Memorial Service: Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND.

Interment: Riverside Cemetery at 3:30 PM, Fargo, ND.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

West Fargo, ND 58078

westfuneralhome.com

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