Raymond A. Nelson

Funeral services for Raymond A. Nelson, age 87, of Milaca, will be held Thursday, July 10, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church in Milaca with Rev. Harvey Johnson officiating. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 09, 2014 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the church and also one hour prior to services. Interment will take place at the Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery near Foreston. Raymond “Ray” Andrew Nelson was born December 11, 1926 in Hollywood Township to Tim and Sarah (Johnson) Nelson. He was their only child. Ray attended school until eighth grade at Hollywood Township School. After graduating from grade school in seven years, he continued farming with his father, Tim. He was united in marriage to Janola Borchart (Lange) of Watertown, MN at Saint John’s Lutheran Church in Winsted, MN on November 26, 1967, after Tim’s death. In 1986, he and his wife, moved to Milaca. Ray worked as a dairy farmer on the homesteaded farm that his grandpa Andrew Nelson homesteaded some time in the late 1800’s. Ray worked for 21 years at Mille Lacs Soil and Service Association in agronomy, delivery of ammonia, handling equipment, and advisory capacity. Ray was very involved in church and community affairs. He served at some capacity on about as many board of directors as there were organizations. His hobbies included league bowling, latch hook rugs, and family board games. His favorite places to go were threshing shows, and/or antique tractor shows. His favorite color was red and favorite music was country gospel. Some of Ray’s quotes were: “One of the places on earth I have enjoyed most is farming the home farm with my loving wife Janola right beside me.” “Three activities I have enjoyed the most are-work, work, work.” I want my family to remember me for loving God and loving them.” Ray will be remembered for: his love of farming, his love of history, his intelligence, his work ethic, his willingness to serve others, his absolute love and devotion to his God, his wife, and his family. Ray passed away Saturday, July 05, 2014 at his home in Milaca. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Janola; one son, Russ Lange of Delano; three daughters, Bonnie (Ronnie) Strei of Young America, Carol (Perry) Dragt of Litchfield, and Judy (Keith) Rademacher of Hutchinson; 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great granddaughter; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family wishes to thank everyone for their support, prayers, and remembrances at this time. Thank you for your many acts of kindness shown to Ray these past years. (No cards of thanks will be sent.)