James Stephen Nelson

James Stephen Nelson, of Roseville, passed away on Friday, February 7 at the age of 84. Born April 6, 1940 to Wallace and Elsie Nelson of York, Nebraska.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Stuart; and granddaughter, Kasey Hall. 

Steve will remain in the hearts of his wife of 63 years, Carolyn; children, Tad (Sue) Nelson, Theresa Linsmeyer, Tara (Tim) Garvin, Troy (Scarlett) Nelson, Ann (Steve) Hall, and James (Melissa) Nelson; adopted daughter, Cindy Behrends; grandchildren, Sam (Claudia) Nelson, Ben (Alyssa) Nelson, Andrew (Sarah) Linsmeyer, Michelle (Jasen) Lasserud, Wally (Allison) Linsmeyer, David (Nataya) Linsmeyer, Chase (Kelsey) Garvin, Jolie (Luke) Garvin (soon to be Ahlstrom), Megan (Phillip) Fraser, Spencer Nelson, Taylor (Randall) Mathews, Thomas Hall, Mitchell Nelson, and Lauren Nelson; great grandchildren, Tad, Izzy, Luka, Cade, Ariah, Tessa, Harley, Mick, Reece, Wren, Henry, Jax, Luanna, Campell, Charlotte, Sullivan, and Maxwell; sister, Suzanne Bartlett; sister-in-law, Bonnie Nelson; niece, Diane (Dale) James; nephews, Dennis Nelson, Dale Nelson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Larry and Sue Dedic; nephew, Jeremy Dedic; and special bonus family members, Gavin Zachman, Raegan Zachman, and Julie Nelson. 

Retired from Burlington Northern Railroad, Steve enjoyed life full of experiences: high school basketball stardom, a wager that bought an engagement ring, Apple River floats, water skiing on the “lakes” of Nebraska and Iowa, embracing leadership in Minnesota State Swimming (for and with his children), working off-hours from his wife to support his family, dealing with the crock pot, helping with the harvest, building a home for three generations to enjoy time - especially “Christmas in July”, Gator rides, and frequent visits. Steve especially loved spending time with his extensive family and friends, golfing, reading, journaling, traveling, geocaching, and winters & happy hours in Mesa, AZ.

Memorials preferred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Private family Mass to be held at a later date.