Val Wray Nelson was born on April 15, 1942 to Glen and Darial (Plantz) Nelson in Lynd, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed in the Methodist faith, and graduated from Lynd High School in 1960. After high school, Val enlisted into the United States Army.
On June 12, 1965, Val was united in marriage to Betty Neisius at St. Eloi Catholic Church in Ghent. They lived at Ft. Bragg in North Carolina until his honorable discharge from the Army. They moved back to Minnesota and made their home in Lynd where Val worked as a lineman for Northwestern Bell. He was also a member of the Lyon County Historical Society. He enjoyed metal detecting, treasure hunting, being outdoors, working on old cars, hot rods, and enjoyed gardening. He was an avid Minnesota sports fan, especially the Minnesota Vikings and Timberwolves. He also had a soft spot for animals but most importantly he loved to spend time with his grandchildren, family and friends.
On Monday, April 24, 2017, Val passed away peacefully with his daughters by his side at Morningside Heights Care Center in Marshall at the age of 75.
He is survived by his two daughters Dion (Scott) Hansen of Avon and Dana (Nate Slocum) Nelson of Gary SD; five grandchildren Jayden McCracken, Nick Hansen, Lainey Hansen, Olivia Slocum and Merrick Slocum; two siblings Vernon (Julie) Nelson and Crystal (Zack) Wood-Thomas; three sisters-in-law Bev (Norb) Blanchette, Kathie (Ron) Welvaert and Karen (Al) Trosen; three brothers-in-law Mike (Carole Heffernan) Neisius, Tom (Char Wilson) Neisius and Larry (Cheri) Pelzel; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and his four beloved cats.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Betty, infant brother Glen, and brother-in-law Pat Neisius.
Blessed be his memory.

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