Ronald E. Nelson

Ronald E. Nelson, 92, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Ronald was born July 27, 1933 in Mayville, North Dakota, the son of Albert and Ann Nelson. He was reared and educated in Sharon, North Dakota, his favorite little town. He graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1955 and spent the next two and half years as an officer in the United States Air Force. In June 1954, he married Olive Hannestad; she survives.

Ronald is also survived by a daughter, Jovone (Tom) Miler, Kewanee; two sons, Timothy K. (Bonnie) Nelson, Watoma, Wisconsin, Gregory P. (Kay Beard) Nelson, Bailey, North Carolina; six grandchildren, Kim (Ryan) Boland, Matthew (Emily) Miler, Michael (Amy) Miler, Dan (Andrea) Nelson, Jon (Erin) Nelson, and Ron (Ashlie) Nelson; thirteen great grandchildren, Ella and Ian Boland, Anna and Drew Miler, Evan, Mason, and Grant Miler, Carsen and Cameron Nelson, Olivia and Elyse Nelson, Ryker Thornton, and Conlan Nelson. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Richard “Dick” Nelson.

He was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force in 1958. During his working career he worked for General Electric Credit Corporation, Household Finance, Aristar City Corporation, and First Financial Bank of Stevens Point, Wisconsin from which he retired in 1994.

 He was a huge sports fan, known for his unwavering support for the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Milwaukee Brewers. Ronald found solace and joy in the game of golf. Ronald's love for travel took him to the serene landscapes of northern Wisconsin and the sun-kissed shores of Gulf Shores, where he created a treasure trove of memories with his family and friends. Ronald was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in Kewanee, where he served with a generous heart, and he held fond memories of his time at Grace Lutheran Church in Cambridge, Wisconsin. At the heart of Ronald's life was his family, especially his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. As we remember Ronald Nelson, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, a heart given to others, and a spirit that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Private memorial services will take place at a later date. Pastor Linnea Gustafson will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded by the Kewanee Veterans Council. Online condolences for Ronald’s family may be left at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald E. Nelson, please visit our floral store.