John L. Nelson's Obituary
John L. Nelson, age 86, of Wild Rose, WI, passed away on Sunday, May 31st, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born at home, in Wautoma Township, on October 10, 1939, a son of the late Raymond and Dorothy (Kresal) Nelson.
John graduated from Wild Rose High School in 1957, following HS, John took forestry classes and graduated from Oshkosh Tech. He then went on to Michigan Technological University, where he received a BS in Forestry. He became a DNR forester for the State of MN later becoming a District DNR Supervisor. From where he retired after more than 36 years.
John raised his two boys in Cambridge, MN, surrounded by good family, friends and neighbors. He was their hockey coach for many years. He was very instrumental in building the Cambridge-Isanti Ice Arena. Back in WI he was a contributing member of the We Really Kare Fishing Club. John was a devoted and loving husband, proud father, kind and generous grandfather and dear friend to many.
John was known for his passion for the outdoors, and stewardship of its gifts; he loved to fish, hunt and camp at many state and national parks; then sharing his experiences and lessons with others. He was quick to a game of cards and even quicker to a one-liner!
Survivors include his wife: Judith Jensen Nelson, Wild Rose, WI; sons Christopher (Danielle) Nelson; Nicolas (Emily) Nelson; Step-children: Heidi (Neal) Maciejewski; Mark (Mary) Jensen; Paul (Christine) Jensen; Laura (Kantrell) Jensen, Karen (Levi) Spann; Nancy Jensen; Grandchildren: Reagan and Bennett Nelson; Hazel and Waylon Nelson; Step-Grandchildren: Kira (Wyatt) and Lily Jensen; Max Jensen; Jack and Leah Maciejewski. Brothers Ronald Nelson and Daniel Nelson, and many Nelson nephews and nieces. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Raymond and Dorothy Nelson; his first wife Catherine (Chavez) Nelson; sister Barbara and brother-in-law Donald Hasselquist; nephew Rory Hasselquist.
John was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waupaca, WI where a Memorial Service will be held at 11am on Friday, June 12, 2026. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 12th at the church from 8:30 am until the time of the Memorial Service, at 11am. Interment of cremains will take place at West Holden Lutheran Cemetery with family, at a later date. A luncheon to follow the service will be held at Mt. Morris Town Park.
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