Calvin Nelson

Calvin R. Nelson, 72, Kenmare, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2009, at his home.

Calvin R. Nelson was born March 10, 1937, the son of Alvin and Ella (Hanson) Nelson on the family farm located in Spencer Township, west of Kenmare. He was raised on the family farm and educated at the Spencer School.

Calvin married LonaMae Zimmer on June 27, 1960. They made their home in Kenmare before moving to the Leonard Zimmer farmstead, where they raised their family, ranched and farmed. Calvin had an intense interest in livestock. For over 40 years he bought and sold cattle as a bonded licensed dealer. Calvin and his family used this interest to supply horses for the PMU business they operated for over 35 years. His love and knowledge of horses branched off into the field of rodeo. He chose to breed and raise bucking horses. He was a founding member of the Roughrider Rodeo Association, designed for the entire family participation, thus allowing the younger generation a start in rodeo.

Calvin also enjoyed cooking, grocery shopping, teasing all, visiting with friends and family, and all children. Christmas brought his family together and they anticipated his giving, big heart. He was a hard worker, who accomplished his dreams and kept working at them. He was blessed with eight grandchildren, and was extremely proud of each one of them. They will each remember all the special little things he did for them and for all the stories he would share.

He will be greatly missed by his faithful wife of 49 years, LonaMae, rural Kenmare; children, Rowena Nelson, Williston, LouAnn (Tom) Blain, Hermosa, SD, Terrilyn (Dean) Braasch, Minot, Jarald (Tawnya) Nelson, Minot; grandchildren, Bailey, Justin and Tucker Blain, Mariah and Amber Braasch, and Ashley, Tyler and Kaydee Nelson; sister Collette (Ted) Maxwell, Corvalis, MT; brothers, Carmie (Helen) Nelson, Kenmare, Clarence (Sharon) Nelson, Kenmare, Curtis (Bonnie) Nelson, Stanley, and Carlton (Cassie) Nelson, Ore City, TX; sister-in-law, Vernis Nelson, Kenmare; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, friends, and his rodeo family.

Calvin was preceded in death by his parents; son, Craig Richard; and brother, Clifford.

Funeral: Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at 10 a.m. at Faith Baptist Church, Kenmare.

Interment: Lakeview Cemetery, Kenmare.

Visitation: Tuesday one hour prior to the service at the church.

Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at (www.thompsonlarson.com).