Orris A. Nelson

Orris A. Nelson age 90, of Dilworth, MN, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2010 in his home. Orris was born May 1, 1919 to Norman and Selma Heimark Nelson in Fertile, MN. He grew up, attended school and graduated from Fertile High School. After graduating, he worked on the family farm before moving to Detroit, MI. Orris started working as a carpenter. He later worked for Briggs Factory, where he met Janet Riley. They married on May 22, 1943 in Napoleon, OH. They later moved to the Detroit Lakes area in 1947. Together they started a family and in 1970, moved to Big Cormorant Lake. He worked for the Minnesota Department of Transportation until retiring in 1982. Orris was active in many organizations over the years. He served as the Cormorant Township Clerk for 23 years. Orris was also a member of the Cormorant Lions and the Barber Shop Chorus in Detroit Lakes, MN. He was very active in church throughout his life. He enjoyed writing and watching Minnesota sports, especially the Gophers. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren compete in various sports and activities. Orris had a love for music and dancing, even teaching dance lessons with his wife. Orris is survived by his children, Pam Mark Buschette-Cottrell of Dilworth, MN and Todd Mary Nelson of Moorhead, MN; grandchildren, Brandi Chad Juntunen, Melissa Buschette, Brady Angela Nelson, Corby Ashley Nelson and Grant Nelson; great-grandchildren, Parker, Aiden and Savannah Juntunen, and Avery Nelson; sister, Gevine Hoysler of Raleigh, NC; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Fox and Arla Veihl, both of Tower, MI; and godson, Bill Widnes of Dilworth, MN; and several nieces and nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Janet, and parents.