Ralph A Nelson

Ralph A Nelson obituary, Owatonna, MN

Ralph A Nelson

Ralph Nelson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Michaelson Funeral Home - Owatonna on Mar. 4, 2025.
Ralph Andrew Nelson, 80, passed away at his home on March 3, 2025.
Ralph was born November 14, 1944 in St. Peter, Minnesota to Andrew and Lena (Deling) Nelson. While growing up, Ralph helped working on the farms in the Winona and Altura, Minnesota areas. After entering the manufacturing workforce, he worked at a few different companies until his retirement from OTC (later known as SPX) in 2008.
Ralph married the love of his life, Karen Fischer on July 18, 1970 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Owatonna. This union brought two children. Ralph was the happiest when in the company of his family. His favorite hobbies were fishing and snowmobiling. Some of his favorite years were when he and Karen were square dancing.
He is survived by his children, Bruce Nelson of Owatonna and Jill Lantsberger of Owatonna; grandchildren, Courtney (Zach), Parker, Amber, Connor (Kyleigh), and Hannah; siblings, Rose Nelson and Ron (Janet) Nelson. Also survived by in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Karen, his parents, and a great granddaughter.
Private family services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorials may be made in Ralph's honor to Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Owatonna or St. Croix Hospice.

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

How to support Ralph'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 Ralph 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 Ralph Nelson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?