Fargo, ND – Ronald R. Nelson, age 79, of Fargo, ND, formerly of Thief River Falls, died Monday, January 10, 2022 at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo with his family by his side.
Ron was born April 4, 1942 in Greenbush, to Wallace and Nellie (Willet) Nelson; he was one of six children. He was baptized at Poplar Grove Lutheran Church in Strathcona and confirmed at Calvary Lutheran Church in St. Hilaire. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1960 and attended the Technical College in Thief River Falls for two years, graduating with an accounting degree.
Ron married Shirley Thompson of Warroad on May 6, 1967 at Calvary Lutheran Church in St. Hilaire. Together they raised two children: son Michael and daughter Jeanne.
Ron’s early work experience came at Nesland Accounting and Sid’s Motor Sales, both in Thief River Falls. In 1972 Ron, Shirley and their young son moved to Mankato where Ron and his brothers, Eugene and Jonas, purchased a frame and alignment business. The business, Nelson Motors, expanded into a full automotive service center. Five years later, in April 1977, Ron and Joe ventured back to Thief River Falls and purchased the Chrysler dealership from Sid Bruggeman, renaming the business Westside Motors. In 1979 the business moved to its current location where Ron served as President for 34 years until his retirement in December 2011.
Ron was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Randall L. Noper Charitable Trust, Minnesota Auto Dealers Association, National Auto Dealers Association, numerous boards, and often provided pro bono financial advisory services to local businesses. He was a proud supporter of and strong advocate for the community and surrounding areas.
Outside of work, Ron’s first love was his five grandchildren. He was also very passionate about the outdoors; he was an avid fisherman, a relentless snowmobiler, a perfectionist at manicuring his lawn, and his early years spent drag racing fueled his love for the auto industry.
Ron is survived by his wife, Shirley Nelson; children, Michael Nelson and Jeanne (Jeff) McBride; grandchildren, Alexander, Dylan, Avery, and Landon. He is also survived by his sister, Marcia (Orrin) Ramstad; sister-in-law, Laura Nelson; and several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Wallace and Nellie Nelson; brothers, Neil Nelson, Eugene Nelson and Jonas Nelson; sister, Virgene Norby; and sister-in-law, Loralea (Eugene) Nelson.
Honorary casket bearers include his many friends, close business partners, and the numerous staff and customers of Westside Motors.
The service to celebrate Ron’s life was held on Monday, January 17, 2022 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Terri Cuppett officiating.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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