Lester John Nelson passed away peacefully on Nov. 28, 2021 at his home in Scottsdale, AZ. at the age of 97.
Lester was born on October 14, 1924 in Kenmare, N.D. to John E. Nelson and Elsie M. Nelson (Anderson). He was the 3rd of 6 siblings who were raised on their farm in Donnybrook, N.D.
Lester took over operation of the family farm during World War II and grew durum wheat which is also known as pasta or macaroni wheat. As the years went by Lester acquired more land which he continued to farm and at the age of 48 met and married the love of his life, Mildred F. Anderson (Garrison). He and Mildred worked the farm in the summer months and spent their winters in Arizona. In 1985 they retired, permanently moved to Scottsdale, AZ and spent their time traveling and enjoying family and friends. Lester immediately became an important member and head of Mildred’s family and was warmly and affectionately welcomed by all.
He is survived by sisters Elsie Weber and Ann Wilson, brothers-in-laws Donald Wilson and Robert Cole, step-daughter Claudia Claunch, grandchildren Kelcy Browder, Paul (Diane) Sapp, Kevin Claunch and Keith (Amanda) Claunch, ten great-grandchildren, six great great-grandchildren, and cousin Richard Anderson as well as many nieces and nephews.
Lester was preceded in death by his parents, wife Mildred, brother Lyle Nelson, sisters Helen Cole and Hazle Barke, step-daughter Judith Hylton and her husband Larry Sr., grandson Larry Hylton Jr., brother-in-law Wayne Weber and nephew Randy Barke.
Memorial services will be held Thursday, December 16th at Greenwood Memory Lawn 719 N. 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ. 85009. Viewing will be held at 11:00am with services at 11:30am in the chapel followed by a gravesite service. Flowers can be sent to Greenwood Memory Lawn or donations can be made to Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, AZ.
