Nicholas James 'Nick' Nelson

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Nicholas James "Nick" Nelson, 69, of Ironwood, passed away on Saturday, June 3, 2023, in Madison, Wisconsin, with his loving wife by his side.

Nick was born to Helen (Madden) and Walter Nelson of Wakefield on Oct. 25, 1953, and graduated from Wakefield High School in 1971. He married Marcia Holm, the love of his life, on Feb. 10, 1973, and they recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister-in-law, Doreen (Holm) Schaller; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Nick is survived by his wife, Marcia; three children, Stacey (Jason) Saari, Bryan (Kristen) Nelson and Jennifer (Robert) Edyvean; seven beloved grandchildren, Julia (Lucas) Henslin and Catelyn and Tanner Nelson; Nicholas and Allison Saari; and Zachary and Sadie Edyvean; his sister-in-law, Sherry Holm; his brother-in-law, Larry Schaller; four nieces, Kolleen Oswasky, Kathy Schaller, Joann Lietha and Amanda Sjoberg; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. He is also survived by his beloved English Setters, Roxie and Lizzie.

Nick grew up in Wakefield, he worked in many capacities, including bartending, referee for hockey, employee of White Pine Copper Mine, owner of the Elk and Hound Bar and Restaurant, and Ironwood Area Schools paraprofessional and bus driver until he retired. Nick coached many children with Ironwood Little League and Polar Bear Hockey Club. He was an avid golfer and bowler, enjoyed playing cards and played old-timer softball. He enjoyed every minute of time spent at his hunting camp.

His greatest joy in life was watching his grandchildren in their activities including, karate, hockey, softball, baseball, horse showing, playing guitar and volleyball. He was over the moon when he learned he was going to be welcoming his first great-grandchild in December 2023.

He created joy and laughter for everyone he knew and will be missed dearly by family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Gogebic Country Club Junior Golf Program, P.O. Box 581, Ironwood, MI 49938. Condolences can be sent to the Nelson Family, E5891 Airport Road, Ironwood, MI 49938.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at Zion Lutheran Church, 100 W. Midland Ave., Ironwood, with the Rev. Nicole Hanson-Lynn officiating. A luncheon to follow in the fellowship hall.

Burial will take place in the Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield.

Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements.