Lee Paul Nelson

Lee Paul Nelson, age 67, of Winona, MN, died Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at his home in Winona.

Lee was born March 15, 1956, in Winona, the son of Leslie and Anah (Goss) Nelson. He was a grouse hunter, and an ardent trout fisherman, noted for landing record sized fish. He was dedicated to woodland management and to the environment of property, especially in Cedar Valley. He was also a dedicated wildland firefighter. He was a member of the Hot Shot Crew, Helitack Management, and the US Forest Service throughout the Western United States. He was Fire Management Officer at the Minnesota River Wildlife Refuge, retiring in 2015. Lee was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. 

Lee is survived by his mother, Anah (Howard) Munson of Winona; sister, Lynn (Dale) Engrav; nieces and nephews: Paul, Ava and Karlyn Jensen; step-siblings: Bruce, Beth, and Dan Munson. He is also survived by many firefighter brothers and a multitude of good friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Leslie; sister Nancy Jensen.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 11am at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Winona. A visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. 

Memorials are preferred to the Winona Historical Society.