Merle Eugene Nelson

Merle Eugene Nelson, 85, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2022. Merle was born on December 21, 1936 to Lilly (Birky) and Walter Nelson in Manson, Iowa. After graduating from Manson High School in 1956, Merle worked at Egli Hatchery, Poppen Hatchery, Manson Co-op, and Webb Hatchery until he found his calling in 1970 at Calhoun County Secondary Roads Department. He started as a truck driver, became foreman in 1997, and eventually retired (protesting the whole time) in 2006. Even after retirement, he still had his custom Hay Bailing business which was passed down from his father. Merle’s son Randall still carries on this business today.

Merle married Twila Ranger in April, 1962. They purchased Merle’s beloved acreage in 1968 where his love of horses, dogs, IH Farmall Tractors, salvaging old barns, and collecting just about everything he could came to fruition. Merle’s interests and talents were vast and varied. He was always reading and learning new things; from Carpentry, to American History, and of course his Westerns. He was a member of the Manson saddle club, a lifelong member or the NRC and NRA. Merle was a devoted Christian, and was a member Augustana Lutheran church his entire life. He served on many committees and was on the church council. When asked to describe Merle, His friends and family overwhelmingly said: Considerate, Friendly, Kind, Gentle, Honest, Dependable, Helpful, Selfless & Hard Working.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Lilly, and his wife Twila. He is survived by Sons: Randall (Patty) Nelson, Dean (Dawn) Nelson, Daughter: Erin (Mark) Partlow, Sister: June Johnson, Brothers: Larry (Linda) Nelson, Kenny (Mary) Nelson, and many Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.

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