Charles R. Nelson

Charles (Chuck) Nelson, age 85, of Shoreview, passed away on December 31, 2025.

Preceded in death by parents, Harvey & Hilda (Olson) Nelson; and sisters, Aurel Jacobson & Bonnie Lykken.

Survived by wife of 66 years, Marlys; children, Brent (Beth) Nelson & Kim (Jeff) Beecham; grandchildren, Chelsea (Dustin) Russell, Jace (Shannon) Nelson, Dane (Marlene) Beecham, Blaire Beecham; and four great grandchildren.

Chuck was born in Grafton, North Dakota, a place he always remembered with deep affection. He loved his childhood there - full of adventure, hunting, sports, and close family ties. Those early experiences shaped the values that guided his life: curiosity, perseverance, and connection to family.

As a teenager, Chuck began working for his father’s construction company, where he developed a lifelong respect for hard work and practical problem-solving. He went on to attend the University of North Dakota, majoring in Civil Engineering, and later pursued graduate studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, earning his PhD.

In 1969 he joined the University of Minnesota as an Assistant Professor. His years at the University were marked by significant research achievements in underground design and development and, most meaningfully, by the students he mentored. Chuck was deeply committed to teaching and took pride in guiding future engineers, many of whom carried his influence throughout their careers.

Chuck founded CNA Consulting Engineers in 1979 with his wife, Marlys. Together, they built a firm grounded in technical excellence, integrity, and collaboration. During his time at CNA, Chuck designed numerous landmark projects: LaFayette Bluff and Silver Cliff Tunnels along the North Shore, University of Minnesota underground Civil Engineering building and Anderson Library, MSP Airport Light Rail Tunnel, and countless miles of infrastructure tunnels beneath the Twin Cities. His creative vision inspired those around him and led to effective, innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.

At the center of Chuck’s life was his marriage to Marlys, the love of his life. Married for more than 66 years, their partnership was one of deep devotion, teamwork, and shared adventure.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chuck had a deep love for the outdoors. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping - passions that shaped many family vacations and created countless cherished memories.

Chuck lived a life of purpose, partnership, and award-winning engineering accomplishments. He will be remembered with gratitude, admiration, and love.

A visitation will be held from 3:00 - 5:00 pm (with a sharing of memories at 4:30 pm) on Tuesday, January 27th at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home (Roseville), 2130 N. Dale St. at County Rd. B.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to donors choice.

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