Vernon Leroy Nelson

Vernon Leroy Nelson, 94, of Hawley, MN, passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Sunnyside Care Center, Lake Park, MN, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Vernon was born on May 3, 1930, in Eglon Township, rural Hawley, MN, to Ralph and Emma (Omberg) Nelson. He was baptized and confirmed at Hegland Lutheran Church where he continued to attend for the rest of his life. He attended country school at Airy Hill District 61 through the 8th grade when he started farming on the family farm with his father. He was drafted into the United States Army where he proudly served his country during the Korean War. After his service, he returned to the family farm, continuing his farming career until he eventually took it over from his father. During the winters, he worked for American Crystal Sugar Company in Moorhead, MN, for over 50 years.

Vernon enjoyed hunting small game, ice fishing at Silver Lake, and spending his time outdoors. He always had a garden and could often be found cultivating it. During his younger years, he belonged to a softball team named “Rollag” out of Hawley, MN, which was made up of a group of local farmers. He was a big fan of sports, especially the Twins and the Vikings. He was a known friendly trickster and an instigator of shenanigans, especially with his brothers Robert and Ralph, Jr., and was always dreaming up something creative.

Vernon is survived by his siblings, Muriel Grefsrud and Robert (Twylla) Nelson; several nieces, nephews, and many other loving relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Emma; and siblings, Barbara, Delores, Janet, and Ralph, Jr.

Visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 P.M., Friday, November 22, 2024, at Hegland Lutheran Church, rural Hawley, MN. A recording of the service will be available shortly after it has taken place. Burial will be at Hegland Lutheran Church Cemetery following the service.

Vernon’s family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Sunnyside Care Center for the phenomenal care they gave to Vernon during his stay.