Wayne Delbert Nelson, 93, of Mesa, AZ, passed away on May 22, 2024. He was born on October 14, 1930 in Reliance, South Dakota. He moved to the family farm in St. Charles, Iowa when he was a young boy. He graduated from St. Charles High School. Wayne married Darlene Farr, January 20, 1951 in St. Charles, Iowa, They had four children, who were very active in I-35 School sports and activities. Wayne also coached Little League Baseball in St. Charles. Later years, he moved and worked in Mesa, AZ and Henderson, NV.
Wayne had a fulfilling career starting in Iowa before moving to Arizona. He worked for Blueline Transfer in the early ’50s and later transitioned into construction, specializing in running heavy equipment until his retirement when he moved back to Mesa. Wayne found joy in operating machinery, especially the dozer, and his passion for his work was evident through the countless stories he shared about his time in construction.
In his leisure time, Wayne enjoyed playing golf and traveling with Darlene, in their Motorhome to Bluegrass Festivals and traveling around several states. He and his beloved wife, Darlene, cherished attending Music and Jam events and socializing with friends and fellow winter visitors listening and dancing to music, particularly Bluegrass and Country music.
Wayne loved spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren playing sports, basketball, volleyball and watching softball even in 110+ degrees. Wayne was a loving and proud father and grandfather.
Wayne is survived by his devoted wife, Darlene Farr Nelson, his children: Steve (Sue) Nelson, Debra Harvey (John Crook), David (Kay) Nelson, and son-in-law Patrick Greenwood. Grandchildren Melissa (Allen) Streibich, Randi Williams, Clint Harvey, Sacha (Tyler) Sigler, Phillip Greenwood, Jon Nelson, Angela (Mike) Dravis, and Elizabeth Greenwood (Joe Herbert). Eleven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way. His siblings Jessie Clericuzio, Lois Jackson, Max (Carolyn) Nelson and Larry (Joni) Nelson.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Nelson and Alta St. John Nelson, his daughter Louann Nelson Greenwood, granddaughter-in-law Sarah Russell Harvey, granddaughter Ashley Nelson, siblings Gwen, Merle, Vernon, Shirley, Donna, and Gene, as well as sister-in-law Peggy, and brother-in-law Car Gunny Jackson.
At this time, no services are planned to commemorate Wayne’s life. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.