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Earl John Nelson passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on November 14, 2025, in Mounds View, MN. Born on September 28, 1931, Earl's life was marked by a genuine kindness and an enduring smile that brought light to all who knew him.
Earl spent many years as a meticulous butcher at Red Owl before advancing to the role of Traffic Manager at Berger Transfer. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through upon retirement when he successfully owned and operated a donut shop. Earl was not only dedicated to his career but also a passionate carpenter. Earl and his family were avid campers and members of the Lamplighter's Camping Club. Alongside his son, Dave, he skillfully crafted a beautiful cabin on Bone Lake in Wisconsin, marking a lasting legacy of craftsmanship and shared family moments.
A man of deep familial connections, Earl was a central figure in the lives of his extensive family. He is survived by his children, Wendy McCollor, Kris Blue, and Dave Nelson (Melissa); his loving grandchildren, Cari, Jason (Jessie), Tim (Monica), Katie Jo (Mike), Alex (Cedar), Jeremy (Maddie), Brittany, Nikki (Dan), Lexi (Gino), Brandon, Ashley, Brayden, Ashlyn; and great-grandchildren, Emily Jo, Josie, Lizzy, Juno, Grace, Elsie, Jude, Noah, and Boden. He is also survived by his four stepdaughters and their families. Earl was preceded in death by his first wife, Angela I. Nelson, his second wife, Patricia B. Nelson, his son Dennis Nelson, daughters-in-law Sharon Nelson and Amy Nelson, and granddaughter Brianna Jo Nelson.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation on November 20, 2025, from 10:00 to 10:30 AM at New Life Presbyterian Church, 965 Larpenteur Avenue West, Roseville, MN. A funeral service will follow immediately, with a graveside burial at 12 PM at Roselawn Cemetery, 803 Larpenteur Avenue West, Roseville, MN. The day will conclude with a gathering for lunch at the Roseville VFW, 1145 Woodhill Drive, Roseville, MN.
Earl's memory will forever resonate not only through his family and the structures he built but also in the hearts of those he encountered, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness
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