Alvin “Buzz” Norman Nelson passed away June 5, 2018, after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Alvin was born on September 1, 1929 to Edith and Arndt Nelson in Sioux Falls. He was baptized at Benton Lutheran Church, Crooks SD on October 27, 1929.
He married Lois Ann McGuire at Little Flower Church on the 25th of June 1956. He affectionately called Lois his bride until his last day. They enjoyed many years of dancing together.
Buzz served in the Air Force and was honorably discharged. Upon return home he started Arndt’s Wrecking with his father. It became one of the country’s largest auto recyclers. Buzz helped to establish a national association for the used auto parts industry and he drafted the first employee relations guide. It was distributed by the national association until 1990.
Buzz began acquiring the land that has become Blood Run in 1982. He hosted Governor’s: Janklow, Mickelson, Rounds, and Duugaard as well as Senator Johnson in his effort to secure the land for the benefit of all South Dakotan’s. During his campaign he worked with the Director of Game Fish and Parks, Doug Hofer, as Blood Run became a National Landmark and as Good Earth became a SD State park. Native Americans have been involved in the development of the visitor’s center that honors the tribal ancestors of the Dakota territory.
Buzz had a passion for nature and enjoyed singing in the church choir and barbershop quartet.
Grateful for having shared his life are his loving bride of 61 years, Lois; his children, Michelle Bonitto, (Kevin Kargal), Mike Nelson (Julie), Jill Nelson (Mark Johnson), Ann Flemmer (Gary), and Linn Nelson; as well as numerous grandchildren, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; his sister, Donna Woolsey.
Buzz was proceeded in death by his parents and sisters, Betty Wilde and Darlene Busse.
The visitation will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on Friday, June 8 from 4-6 pm. The funeral will be held at Dow Rummel Village Chapel on Saturday, June 9 at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Good Earth State Park or a charity of your choice.
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