Gene Nelson

Gene was born on July 15,1934 to Harry and Ruth (Lunstrum) Nelson in Forest City, Iowa. He graduated from high school and attended Waldorf College. He met and married his lifelong sweetheart Janice Steinberg in Buffalo Center, Iowa on a snowy Thanksgiving night, November 22nd, 1956. He enlisted in the United States Army from 1957-1959. After his honorable discharge he attended Luther College earning his teaching degree. He taught History and Social Studies briefly in Barnum before moving to the Manson High School.

He loved teaching and serving as the Junior Class Sponsor. During the summers he and his crew of high school students painted many houses in the Manson area.

After he retired he volunteered at Unity Point for many years. He loved to visit with anyone that crossed his path, telling former students ‘you were my favorite’ and others ‘you’re a good one’. He may have told a few corny jokes in his life but those on the receiving end loved it.

He is survived by his wife Jan, children Debbie (David), Mark (Kim), Cathy (Terry), Michael (Minta) along with 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 2 sister-in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers, 1 sister, in-laws and grandson Timothy Case.

Special thanks to Friendship Haven, Unity Point and Paula J. Baber Hospice Home for all the loving care. He was our shining star and will be greatly missed.