Michael F. Nelson

Mike and twin brother Pat were born in Watertown, SD, to Bill and Grayce Nelson on July 31st, 1954. Mike died in his home August 4th, 2011. In 1960 he moved to Fargo with his family. Mike spent his childhood growing up in Fargo attending parochial school where he was an alter boy. He attended Shanley High School and sang in the Shanley Boys Choir graduating in 1972. In the same year, he entered the United States Navy and toured the world for three years. He attended North Dakota State University after his discharge in 1975. Mike was employed by several local companies and retired from Moorhead Public Service after 26 years. Mike married Debra Jo Liljestrand on April 29th, 1983 in Fergus Falls, MN and the couple resided in Dilworth. On May 8th, 1985 they welcomed a daughter, Nicole Grayce. Mike had a passion for music all through his life. He enjoyed being outdoors and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. Mike looked forward to singing and playing with the neighborhood children. Seeing Mike always brought a smile to everyone's face. Mike is survived by wife, Debra and daughter, Nicole Nelson and stepson, Mike Sarah Liljestrand, Moorhead; father, Bill D. Nelson, Fargo; sisters, Kim Jay Eisenbeis, Fargo, and Abby Tony Rheault, Boise, ID; brothers, Pat Nelson, Richville, MN, and Peter Ellen Dona Nelson, Minneapolis, MN; along with many special nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his mother, Grayce; and sisters, Beth Skagen, Mary Thorseth and Maggie Scott Brace.