Michael Alloys “M.A.” Nelson

Mike Nelson, age 72, of Moorhead, MN, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in his home after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on Wednesday, October 20, 2021.

Michael “M.A.” Nelson was born on March 5, 1949 in Willmar, Minnesota to Alloys and Ruth (Swenson) Nelson. Mike graduated from Willmar High School in 1967 and enlisted in the Navy in 1968. Mike met the love of his life Trudy “Brat” in 1971 and they were married in Willmar at the United Methodist Church on April 29, 1972. They were blessed with two daughters, Kristi and Jeni. Mike was a devoted worker to BNSF for 40 years as a brakeman, where he rode train and waved to all the pretty girls.

Mike was a devoted husband, loving father, heroic grandfather, and caring great-grandfather. He was a generous friend to all. He could make a friend anywhere he went. Mike had a passion for fishing with his buddies, playing pool at Moorhead Billiards, going to the Dairy Queen with his grandchildren, hosting backyard pool parties, and slipping c-notes when Brat wasn’t looking. His biggest smiles were from watching his grandchildren and great-grandchild play, swim, and grow. Mike will forever be remembered by all.

Mike is survived by his wife and best friend of 49 years, Trudy Nelson; children, Kristi Nelson and Jeni (Marc) Messina; grandchildren, Kylie (Jesse) Groettum, Remi, and Enzo Messina; great-grandchild, Rosemary Groettum; sister, Mary (Aaron) Peterson; sisters-in-law, Cheryl Halleron, Becky Johnson, and Kathy (Terry) Lane; and many nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Alloys and Ruth Nelson; sister, Vicky Lawler; in-laws, Warren and Betty Smith; sister-in law and brother-in law, Sherida and Steve Fuecker; and special aunt, Marge Swanson.

A special thank you to all the staff at Roger Maris Cancer Center, Hospice of the Red River Valley, Dr. Wiisanen, and Dr. Ganai for all their love, care, and support during Mike’s battle with cancer.

Mike’s celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 1:00 PM., with a visitation starting one hour before, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead, MN. A livestream of the service will be available on Mike’s webpage at www.wrightfuneral.com where a guestbook and video tribute may also be found. The family will greet friends after the service in the Christian Life Center.