Bruce Willard Nelson

Bruce Willard Nelson, Sr., 73, of Houston and formerly of Crystal, MN, died at home on Monday, August 27, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer.Bruce was born June 24, 1939 in Minneapolis to Mentor and Myrtle (Benson) Nelson. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1957 On February 14, 1959, Bruce was united in marriage to his childhood sweetheart, Lavone "Bonnie" (Loomer) in Minneapolis. As a teenager, Bruce began working at a grocery store. He was passionate and dedicated to his career in the food industry. Before retiring in 2001, Bruce held many different positions within National Food. After retirement, Bruce and Bonnie moved to a hobby farm in the Houston/Caledonia area. Bruce became a proud rancher and took great care of the animals.He is survived by his loving wife of over 53 years, Lavone; children, Bruce Nelson of Eagan, Bonnie (Michael) Wittmann of Brooklyn Park, and Bradley Nelson of Rushford; 6 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; brothers, Roger Nelson in CA and Ronald (Jeanne) Nelson of KY. Bruce is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Donna Johnson and Jeanne Allerson; brother, John Nelson; and sister-in-law, Eileen Nelson.Memorial service will be held at 1pm on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston with visitation one hour prior. The Reverend Lane Zaffke will officiate. Private family graveside services will be held at a later date. Please share a memory of Bruce with his family, sign the online guestbook, and view his video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/330356