Dewey Nelson

1936 - 2025

Dewey Dale Nelson, 89, passed away on October 2, 2025, in Eugene, Oregon.

Born on August 28, 1936, in Mandan, North Dakota, Dewey was raised with a strong sense of community and a love for music. He graduated from Mandan High School, where he excelled in musical productions and singing, and later attended North Dakota State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a meteorologist, stationed in Salt Lake City and Great Falls, Montana.

A proud North Dakotan who made his mark in the western United States, Dewey built a successful career in the automobile industry. He worked for General Motors and other independent dealerships before becoming a longtime Elko businessman. For nearly 25 years, he owned and operated Dewey Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac and GMC at two locations on Idaho Street in Elko, Nevada.

Dewey was deeply involved in his community. He was a 25-year sponsor of the Elko County Babe Ruth "Blazers," an avid supporter of the Elko County Fair-where he served as both scorekeeper and arena announcer-and a generous contributor to local causes. His dedication to his work and community reflected the Midwestern work ethic that defined him.

He is survived by his son Tripp (Sherri) of Eugene, Oregon; grandchildren Lauren of Bloomington, Indiana and Darren (Heather) of Folsom, California; and numerous nieces and nephews across California, Washington, North Dakota, and Minnesota.

Dewey was preceded in death by his parents Dewey Douglas Nelson and Hazel Altman Nelson; his first wife Rochelle and second wife Coreen; and sisters Elaine Pile, Bev Dahl, and Zoe Betts.

A private family memorial will take place later this year in his beloved Maui, Hawaii. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Northeastern Nevada Museum or the Elko County Babe Ruth League.

Go San Francisco Giants and 49ers!