Clarence A. Nelson, Sr.

Clarence Nelson, Sr., 82, of Portland, ND died Saturday, December 9, 2017 at the Sanford Hospital in Mayville, ND. Clarence Sr. was born in Gary, MN on January 2, 1935 to Edward and Alma (Ramberg) Nelson. He was raised by his siblings and Uncle Ingvald as he lost both parents at a young age. Clarence was confirmed at Ness Lutheran Church of Gary, MN. At the age of 14 he moved to Hibbing, MN with his cousin and began working in the Hibbing Mines. He entered the Army in 1958 and served as a medic during the Korean War, honorable discharge in 1960 with a Good Conduct Medal. Clarence married the love of his life Karen Thompson on July 27, 1963 in Mayville. Together they established their home in Portland where they raised 4 children. Clarence had a strong work ethic and was a self-taught tractor and diesel mechanic. He worked at Larson Sales for 17 years working on Allis Chalmers tractors and went to specialized training for this in Milwaukee. He also worked at Hunter Grain and State Oil and Auto before making his dream of owning his own shop a reality. In 1982 Clarence opened a shop between Mayville and Portland where his 3 sons worked alongside him. He later went to work for POMA and ended his career working at Simon Sales. Even after retiring Clarence loved to work on fixing anything mechanical. He was known for his sense of humor and his willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. The most important thing to him in the world was his family and being able to spend time with them. Clarence is survived by his wife: Karen of 54 years; children: Clarence Jr. (Jessica) Nelson, Dalen Nelson and Cindy (Andy) Benda; his six grandchildren: Jen (Jamie) Thomas, Alex Nelson, Teri Nelson, Abby (Derek) Brick, Cully Nelson (fiancée’ Abby Schnaidt) and Decker Benda along with five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his niece: Vernice Koppinger and her four children. He was preceded in death by his parents: Edward and Alma; brothers: Alton, Clifford and Erwin; sister: Verna Burns and his son: Galen in 2007. Visitation: Will be from 5–7 PM on Thursday, December 14, 2017 with 7:00 PM Public Prayer Service at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND and resumes one hour prior to the service at the church. Funeral Service: 11:00 AM Friday, December 15, 2017 at the Aurdal Lutheran Church in Portland, ND. Military Honors: May~Port Honor Guard and the North Dakota Military Funeral Honors. Burial: Will be at the Aurdal Cemetery in Portland, ND.