Dean Nelson Obituary

Dean Edward Nelson, the son of Craig and Lorene (Taylor) Nelson, was born on March 8, 1941, in Goldfield, Iowa. He was raised and educated in Goldfield, graduating from Goldfield Community School in 1961.

On September 23, 1967, Dean was united in marriage with Diane Cunningham. The couple made their home in Goldfield and raised three children: Lorell, Patrik and Deana.

Dean worked on the family farm with his father, the Goldfield Creamery, and various fabrication jobs at Hagie, Palco and Keifer Built.

Dean was a life long member of the Goldfield Presbyterian church; he was very active in the church with roles from grounds keeper to Sunday school teacher. He was also active in the community where he helped develop the local Storm Watch program, drove the ambulance, and served for 35 years on the Goldfield Fire Department. Diane and Dean were licensed foster care providers helping care for children from 3 months to 14 years old.

Dean enjoyed watching westerns, especially John Wayne and collected all types of Fire Department memorabilia. After retirement he enjoyed traveling with his wife, his favorite the trips to Alaska and Ireland. Dean always enjoyed visiting with people and you always knew when he was in the room.

Dean passed on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the age of 84 years. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Diane Nelson; daughter Deana Sudtelgte, and grandson, Jonathon.

Dean is survived by his daughter, Lorell Nelson; son, Patrik (Ann) Nelson; 9 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren and brother-in-law, Daryl (Sue) Cunningham.