Ronald Nelson of Alcester, SD passed away peacefully at 86 years of age on 30 December 2024 at Dow Rummel Village in Sioux Falls, SD.

Ron was born in Beresford, SD on December 2, 1938, the youngest of four children and the only son to Jimmie and Melva. He graduated from Beresford High School in 1957, attended SDSU for a year, and tried his hand at a few jobs. In May of 1962, he married Jean Gubbrud at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Beresford. A few months later at the age of 24, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. It was not long after their goodbye, that she joined him in Germany where he was stationed for two years.

Upon returning to the United States, the couple chose to come back to South Dakota to farm. Ron was a steward of the land as he grew up raising animals and working the soil. He enjoyed raising cattle and crops and living the life of a farmer. Upon retirement from farming, he served as a farm insurance agent in the area and loved to tinker on the farm.

He enjoyed travelling, camping, and reading. Ron loved his family and his firm belief in God supported him and gave him peace.

Ron leaves behind his son, Trent (Nancy) Nelson; his daughter, Tracy (Todd) Fish; two grandchildren, Joshua and Jordan Fish; his sister Joyce Klinghagen; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Melva and Jimmie Nelson; brother Roger; wife Jean; and sister Marjorie Sippel.

His family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Avera Hospice and Dow Rummel for their care and compassion. Private family services will be held in the Spring.