Thief River Falls – Darrel Nilson, 51, died on Thursday, April 27, 2006 at Northwest Medical Center in Thief River Falls, after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral services were held on Monday, May 1, at Abundant Life Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Wesley Langaas officiating. Casket bearers included David “B.C.” Swanson, Jr., Dennis Rantanen, Scott Wilson, Scott Molstad, Larry Rux, Paul Miramontes and Greg Johnson.
Darrel Craig Nilson was born on March 20, 1955 in Thief River Falls, the son of Philmore and Borghild (Aune) Nilson. He was baptized at United Lutheran Church in Gatzke, on May 29, 1955 and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran in Thief River Falls.
He attended school in Thief River Falls at Northrop Elementary School, Franklin Middle School, and in 1973, he graduated from Lincoln High School. He went on to attend the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, where he studied Architectural Engineering. He also went to truck driving school in Rosemont.
Darrel started driving professionally for E.W. Wylie then later became an owner operator with Northstar Transport which eventually became Transport America. Darrel was the last of only five drivers to ever receive the million mile safety award from Northstar Transport. He was very proud of this accomplishment. Lately, he was working for R & Q trucking out of Roseau. In 1983 and 1984 he worked for the CP Rail. A number of years in the mid 1980’s Darrel spent the winter commercial fishing in Florida.
Darrel was known for his great sense of humor. He was one of the most patient and tactful people, who had a way with words. He enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR, and going to Brainerd for the races. He was a social person who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed Monty Python and British humor. Watching the history channel was a favorite pastime.
Darrel was a member of Abundant Life Lutheran Church and a former member of the Eagles Club in Thief River Falls.
Darrel is survived by his special friend and companion, Vicky Moman of Thief River Falls; his mother, Borghild Nilson of Thief River Falls; one brother, Byron (Lynn Forsberg) Nilson of Thief River Falls; one sister, Sylvia (Corey) Rude of Greenbush; nephews, Erik Nilson of Forada, Aaron Nilson of Forada, and Alexander Rude of Greenbush; one niece, Dia Rude of Greenbush and numerous other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Philmore Nilson; his grandparents; and several aunts, uncles, and two cousins.
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