Adrian Ray Nelson, son of Lowell and Arlene Nelson, was born on November 16, 1947, in Harlan, Iowa. He attended country school until second grade and then transferred to Irwin Schools where he graduated in 1967. In November of 1967, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served 3 tours of the Mediterranean Sea. He was honorably discharged in November of 1971.
Adrian met the love of his life, Linda Mathisen in 1965. They were united in marriage on March 18, 1972, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Audubon, Iowa. To this union, three sons were born: Chris, Seth, and Adam.
Adrian farmed for 3 years and worked as a hired man for the next 7. He also worked for Robinson Implement in Irwin and then worked for Irwin Home Improvement for 33 years. He then went on to work for Shelby County Roads for 2 years as a sprayer. Adrian was an avid lover of fishing and hunting. Especially turkeys.
Adrian passed away peacefully at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska on December 21, 2023, attaining the age of 76 years, 1 month, and 5 days. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Arlene Nelson.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Nelson of Kirkman, IA; children Chris (Leah) Nelson of Audubon, IA, Seth (fiancé Cindy Schwery) Nelson of Panama, IA, Adam Nelson of Kirkman, IA; 4 grandchildren; brother, Jim (Dixie) Nelson of Manilla, IA; other family members and many friends.
Memorial service will be on Saturday, January 6th at 11 am at Harvest of Hope in Harlan. Visitation will be from 9:30 until the time of service at Harvest of Hope. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Kirkman at a later date. Pauley Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
