Paul Leon Nelson

Paul Leon Nelson obituary, Montpelier, ID

Paul Leon Nelson

Paul Nelson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Schwab Matthews Mortuary - Montpelier on Nov. 6, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Paul fought a long and most valiant battle, but it was time for his body to be at peace. He passed away in his home in Montpelier, ID on November 4, 2025.
He was born on May 12, 1960, to Rasmus K Nelson and Leone Davis Nelson in Montpelier, Idaho. He was raised on the farm and learned to work at a young age. This work ethic helped him continue to build and run a successful farming and ranching operation, despite his disabilities. He was passionate about learning and trying new things to better his crops and cattle. Some worked, others didn't. He took what he learned and moved forward. Always willing to share what he learned. Paul graduated in 1978 from Bear Lake High School. After graduation, he worked in a coal mine in Huntington, UT. It didn't take long till he knew he needed to return to the farm lifestyle.
On August 3, 1979, he married his junior high sweetheart, Michelle Bartschi. They were blessed with three children- Jorgen (Becca), Malica, and Treygen (Lauren). 10 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild have joined their family.
Paul and Michelle acquired part of the Nelson family farm and began to build and grow the farm into what it is today. Paul lived and breathed for the farm and ranch. Everything he did was for his "Chell", kids, and grandkids. In 1987 he was in a farm equipment accident that almost took his life. It left his right arm paralyzed and restricted his mobility. With perseverance he continued to fulfill goals and dreams.
In 2014 Paul was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancer chose the wrong person, and he fiercely battled it for eleven years. In January 2025, the cancer mutated to Acute Myeloid Leukemia and ultimately ended his journey here on earth.
Paul cut a wide swath and his wisdom and influence will be missed by many. We know he is now hugging his loved ones with two good arms and is standing tall, free of any limitations.
A memorial service will be held on November 8, 2025, at the Montpelier 1st/4th Wards Building at 12:30 p.m. Interment will be in the Wardboro Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family would like you to donate to the American Cancer Society.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Paul Leon Nelson, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Schwab Matthews Mortuary - Montpelier

702 Clay Street, Montpelier, ID 83254

Make a Donation
in Paul Nelson's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

How to support Paul's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Paul Nelson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Paul Nelson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?