Grant W. Nelson Sr.
Submitted by OPP Editorial A... on Mon, 08/22/2011 - 16:26

1926 — 2011

    
OWATONNA — Grant W. Nelson Sr., 85, of Owatonna died Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011, at his residence.

Grant Willard Nelson was born July 7, 1926, in Winona, Minn., the son of Clarence and Leah Nelson. The family later moved to Columbia, South Dakota where he graduated high school. After graduation, Grant enlisted in the Navy, receiving his training in Idaho. He served aboard the USS Jerauld in Okinawa, Japan. Grant and his three brothers all served in WWII which was a source of great pride for his parents, and all four sons were fortunate to come home safely. Following his honorable discharge he began working at OTC in Owatonna, where he worked for 32 years as tool maker.

Grant was united in marriage to Darlene Sanders on Sept. 16, 1960, in Des Moines, Iowa. They made their home in Owatonna where he and Darlene raised their seven children. The family spent summer vacations at Wi-wita Resort on Woman Lake in northern Minnesota. In his younger years Grant loved to go fishing. After his retirement Grant and his wife, Darlene, took road trips, traveling many scenic routes together, including Yellowstone Park. Grant developed a great interest in computers and learned easily how to use – this was a hobby he enjoyed. He also enjoyed making friends and sharing stores. He liked to spend time with his family and he loved hearing about their activities. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and retired Ham Radio Operator under the call name WOKAF.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene Nelson of Owatonna; seven children, Linda (and Ron) Pavek of Andover, Gary (and Mardonna) Nelson of Owatonna, David (and Janet) Nelson of Owatonna, Kathy (and Wayne) Jeno of Byron, Grant Jr. (and Kris) Nelson of Owatonna, Bill (and Patti) Nelson of Nixa, Mo., John (and Peggy) Nelson of Edina; 15 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nephew, Richard (and Marcia) Ferguson of Owatonna, and several additional nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Waldo, Jack, and Dean Nelson.