Robert D. Nelson

Robert Dale (Nick) Nelson, age 92, died in St. Paul, MN. on December 30, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born in Wyoming, MN. on August 21, 1933 to Walter and Bertha (Pohl) Nelson, the 15th of 17 children.
Nick enlisted in the US Navy on January 21, 1952 and served aboard the aircraft carrier Kearsarge during the Korean War until December 21, 1955. He met the love of his life, Gail Louise Madison, in 1955, while home on leave from the Navy. Nick and Gail were married on May 4, 1957 in Taylors Falls, MN.
Nick and Gail were the loving parents of six children; Rick (Sue) Nelson, Renee (Jeff) Miller, Jeff (Leanna) Nelson, Steve (Kristin) Nelson, Nicole Sandquist (Dan) and Rochelle (Jon) Molde.
Nick is blessed with 20 grandchildren; Meghan, Josh, Amanda, Ben, Nick, Jesse, Chad, Luke, Reanna, Aaron, Emily, Sarah, Gail, Jack, Zachary, Michaela, Madison, Josephine, Alyssa and Mason; and 16 Great-Grandchildren. He is also survived by his dear friend and neighbor, Joan.
Nick was a Maplewood policeman for 28 years, retiring in 1996 with the rank of Captain. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved spending time with his family. His catchphrase was, "I'll start a boot factory." and his children understood it was time to toe the line.
Nick was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gail Louise Nelson, granddaughter, Amanda Leigh Nelson, his parents and 16 siblings.
Visitation will be at Grandstrand Funeral Home, located at 11900 Lake Lane North, Lindstrom, MN, on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 pm, followed by a prayer service from 7:00-7:30 pm. Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Bridget's Catholic Church in Lindstrom, MN on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:00 am, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Kahbakong Cemetery in Taylors Falls, MN. Luncheon will follow at Shafer Town Hall.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Honor Flight Twin Cities.