Nelson 'Nels' Ellsworth, Jr.

October 13, 1923 — August 23, 2014

Nelson 'Nels' Ellsworth Jr., age 90 of Mankato and formerly of Spencer, IA, died Saturday, August 23, 2014 at Pathstone Living in Mankato. Nelson was born October 13, 1923 to Dr. Nelson R. and Alma (Juhl) Ellsworth Sr. in Terril, IA. He graduated from Spirit Lake High School and went on to earn his bachelor of science in Forestry from Iowa State University in Ames. Nelson was inducted into the US Army in 1942 and honorably served his country during WWII in the Pacific Theatre until 1946. He received the Philippines Liberation Ribbon with a Bronze Star. On August 31, 1947, Nelson was united in marriage to Bernice Aggen at his parents' lake house in Spirit Lake. Nelson managed Schoeneman Lumber for 55 years, and received a life-time achievement award in recognition of over 40 years of service in the lumber industry. Together with Bernice, they ran Ellsworth Cottages on Lake Okobji. He was a member of First Congregational Church in Spencer. Nelson enjoyed fishing, hunting, and reading, especially his westerns. Left behind to cherish his memories are his children, Gary (Teri) Ellsworth of Bloomington, MN, Todd (Galina) Ellsworth of Peoria, IL, and Jan (Roger) Huettl of Mankato; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and sister, Cleo (Tom) Popovich of Huron, SD. Nelson was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Bernice in 1998. Don't be sad because he is gone, smile because he was here. Remembering his kind manner, his sense of humor, and his joy of being with family will always give us something to smile about. He taught us how to live...and how to never eat just one cookie.

SERVICES

A memorial service honoring Nelson's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2014 at the Northview ~ North Mankato Mortuary. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the time of the service. Private family burial will be in Spirit Lake, IA. Memorials are preferred to the Mayo Clinic Health System - Mankato Hospice Program.

OFFICIATING

CASKET BEARERS

VISITATION

MUSIC

INTERMENT

Memorial Gardens Cemetery Spirit Lake, Iowa Private Family

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