Jack Nelson

Jack Julius Nelson was born on October 7, 1938 in Hutchinson, Kansas.  Jack grew up in Deer River, Minnesota and graduated from Deer River High School with the Class of 1957. On June 30, 1961, Jack was united in marriage to Jeanette “Blondie” Harju at First English Lutheran Church in Menahga, MN.  Jack attended Itasca Junior College and attained his Associates Degree in Grand Rapids, in Bemidji and attained a bachelor’s degree in Education.  

Jack and Blondie resided in Los Angeles, California where they owned and operated a gas station and Jack drove Greyhound bus. Returning to Wadena, Minnesota in 1969. Jack finished his degree in Bemidji was employed as a Title One Teacher at the Deer Creek School for 30 years and enjoyed coaching cross country and track. Blondie was employed as a 1st grade teacher at the Sebeka Elementary School for 27 years. 

Jack enjoyed golfing, bowling, wood working, boating, traveling throughout the United States, spending time with family and friends and taking part of the Sunnybrook Stomp every year. He was also an active member of the Wadena Lions and the Wadena Elks Lodge #2386.

On November 22, 2019, Jack passed away at St. Cloud Centracare in St. Cloud, Minnesota at 81 years of age.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Preceding him in death were his mother Lillian Nelson; grandson, Zachary; brother-in-law, Walt.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Blondie Nelson of Wadena; grandchildren: Shelbie Nelson of Wadena and Cruz Reed of Friendswood, Texas; sister, Julie Pritchard of Williams, Arizona; brother, Roger (Faye) Nelson of Kennewick, Washington; many other relatives a host of friends.

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