Ronald Duane Nelson

Ronald Duane Nelson, 82, of Bemidji, Minnesota, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 29, 2025, in Bemidji.

Ronald was born on February 10, 1943, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Andrew and Maybell Nelson. He graduated from Central High School in Grand Forks in 1961, where he was a standout athlete and earned recognition as a high school track champion and basketball player. Ronald attended the University of North Dakota and later completed training at the Burlington Northern School of Locomotive Engineering in 1969.

Ronald began his railroad career in Grand Forks, North Dakota with Great Northern Railroad in 1965. With the merger into Burlington Northern Railroad, he served as a brakeman, conductor, and then locomotive engineer until 1986. His dedication to the rail industry continued with Wisconsin Central Railroad until his retirement. Alongside his railroad career, Ronald and his wife Betty owned and operated Western Floral and Gift in Greybull, Wyoming from 1979 to 1988.

A man of deep faith, Ronald was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Bemidji for over two decades. He served as an Elder and found joy in worship, Bible study, and church dinners. His love for the Lord guided many aspects of his life.

Ronald had a zest for life that was evident to all who knew him. Outgoing and talkative by nature, he made friends easily and left lasting impressions wherever he went. He loved spending time outdoors—fishing and hunting were among his favorite pastimes, and he was an avid softball player. A loyal sports fan, Ronald cheered passionately for the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Wild. He was a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for 39 years, Ducks Unlimited, and lifetime member of B.P.O.E

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, Betty Nelson; daughters Stacy (Jim) Scott of Hurricane, Utah, and Naomi (Jeff) King of Prosper, Texas; son Ryan (Patrice) Nelson of Edina, Minnesota; grandchildren Jared Nelson, Caitlin Good, Andrew Nelson, Laura Nelson, Nicolas King, and Cade King; great-grandchildren Deegan Nelson and Ataline King; sister Marilyn Nelson; brother Richard (Kathy) Nelson; as well as many others whose lives he touched.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Maybell Nelson; parents-in-law Woodrow and June Heth; and grandson Rio Good.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, 2:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church located at 123 - 29th Street NE in Bemidji, Minnesota.

Ronald’s steadfast spirit and enduring faith remain a source of comfort to those who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.

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