John Simon Nelson, 73, of NE Minneapolis/Prior Lake, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, after a courageous battle with heart and lung-related illnesses.
A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 11 am, with a time of gathering from 10-10:50 am, at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, 3611 North Berens Road NW, Prior Lake. Pastor Dan Poffenberger will preside. A private family burial will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN. Memorials are preferred and will be distributed in John’s memory by the family.
John was born in Minneapolis on July 12, 1949, to Nels and Marion (Hanson) Nelson. He grew up in NE Minneapolis alongside his sister, Joyce (Nelson) Schrader. John graduated from Edison High School in 1967 and later obtained a degree in Business Administration from Bemidji State University in 1972.
While at Bemidji State, John was a dedicated member of Lambda Alpha Beta, a fraternity where he formed deep and enduring bonds with his brothers. One cherished tradition that started in 1974 and has persisted for an impressive 49 years is the annual fishing trip. As time passed, the trip evolved into a delightful fusion of fishing and golfing, creating a perfect blend of camaraderie and leisure. Throughout the course of these 49 years, countless stories were woven, everlasting memories were etched, and infectious laughter reverberated through the group.
John served with honor in the Minnesota Army National Guard’s 151st Artillery Division. He dedicated his professional life to the consumer products grocery industry, retiring as a national account/regional sales manager. John was known for his work ethic, routinely going above and beyond.
John’s hobbies included being an avid skier, golfer, swimmer, and reader. His unwavering faith provided him solace. He found peace in daily reading of scripture from the bible his mother gave him.
John first encountered his enchanting bride, Nancy, during a lively Memorial Day dance in 1997. The following year, in June 1998, they joyfully united in matrimony. John often reminisced about that day, cherishing it as the best day of his life. Furthermore, John embraced the roles of a father to two remarkable boys and a devoted caregiver to their beloved feline companion.
Demonstrating an innate aptitude, John effortlessly excelled in his newfound responsibilities. Over the years, the family forged many cherished memories, including ski excursions to breathtaking destinations like Colorado and Banff. Equally captivating were their idyllic escapes to the sun-kissed beaches of Naples, FL, and Cancun, MX.
John was passionate about travel and cherished moments with his beloved wife, Nancy, friends, and family. Over the last ten years, John and Nancy traveled with their dear friends Dave “Mic” and Judy McCollum to many exotic locations worldwide, creating numerous lifelong memories.
John selflessly shared his time, affection, and passions, leaving an indelible mark on all fortunate to know him. The immeasurable gratitude we hold for the moments we shared is everlasting.
John is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Nancy L. (McNab) Nelson; his sons, Nick (Mary) Johannes and Alex (Jillian) Johannes; his granddaughters, Sydney, Olivia, Sloane, and Charlotte; his brother-in-law Steve Schrader, niece Julie Schrader and nephew Scott (Mandy) Schrader; and sister-in-law Connie (Jim) Christensen.
There to welcome John home in eternal peace are his cherished mother, father, sister, and many friends and family.
