Funeral services for Henry James Nelson, 83, lifelong Perkins County, SD farmer will be Saturday, February 25, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Evanson Jensen Funeral Home in Hettinger, ND. Rev. Kathleen Dettmann will officiate and burial will be near Sturgis, SD at the Black Hills National Cemetery on Monday, Feb. 27, at 2:00 p.m. Visitations will be from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at the Evanson Jensen Funeral Home in Hettinger and one hour prior to the services on Saturday afternoon.


Henry James Nelson was born December 10, 1922 in Ellingson, Perkins County, SD, the son of Ingvald and Gina (Hage) Nelson. He grew up on the family homestead, south of Hettinger, ND, with his seven brothers and three sisters. He was still living at the homestead at the time of his death on February 18, 2006 at the age of 83 years, 2 months and 8 days.


Henry attended the Sack and Ellingson Schools and graduated from the eighth grade. He also had two years of high school education. While he went to high school, Henry also worked at the Yellowstone Hotel in Hettinger. He was confirmed in the Norwegian Lutheran Church in 1937. Henry was drafted into the Army and was stationed in Vienna, Austria during WWII and returned home in October, 1946.


Henry was a lifelong farmer and bachelor. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends. His dog, Oscar, kept him company for several years and traveled with Henry almost everywhere he went – whether he was out in the field, farming, or driving to town.


Henry was a very kind and caring man. He was always willing to help others, but he never asked for anything in return. Henry had a soft heart for the natural beauty of the outdoors and its wildlife.

He is survived by his sister, Ida Olson, Coon Valley, WI and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceding Henry in death were his parents, his paternal and maternal grandparents, his brothers, Lawrence, George, Irvin, Raymond, Martin, Morris and Chester, his sisters, Mabel Opheim and Nora Bright and several relatives.