Dennis Nelson

Dennis G. Nelson, 80, of Ellston died Saturday, March 18, 2017, at his home near Ellston.

Services will be held at a later date in Mankato, Minnesota. Powers Funeral Home, junction of highways 34 and 25, in Creston is assisting with local arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.powersfh.com.

Dennis Gene Nelson, son of Norris Clifton Nelson and Glenda (Hastad) Nelson, was born March 15, 1937, in Appleton, Minnesota. He graduated from Mankato High School in 1955. He served in the United States Air Force in Guam with Strategic Air Command.

On Feb. 1, 1957, Dennis married Anita Marie Johnson in Mankato, Minnesota. They lived and worked in Mankato. Denny worked for Johnson Reels and later T.E.C., both in Mankato. He went on to start and operate Agridustrial Bearings and Drive, a wholesale and retail sales business in Mankato. Denny and Anita divorced in 1979. Denny sold the business and retired in 1995. He then moved to rural Ellston.

Denny was a lifetime member and supporter of the American Legion and National Rifleman Association.

Denny is survived by his sons, Jim Nelson (significant other Mary Dmytrasz), Scott (Debra) Nelson and Todd Nelson, all of Mankato, Minnesota; daughter Jean (Gabe) Ramirez of Holland, Michigan; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brothers, Ted (Pat) Nelson of Rogers, Minnesota, and Steven Nelson of Wisconsin; sisters, Gwen (Robert) Beck of Springfield, Illinois, and Susan (Ted) Mikle of St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents and daughter at birth, Kelly Rae.