Vernon Clifford Nelson, the eldest child of Clarence and Myrtle (Christianson) Nelson, was born on the original family farm in Sundal Township, rural Fertile, MN, on March 20, 1935. He was raised there, where he developed a strong work ethic and love for the land. Vernon enjoyed the simple pleasures of farm life and the beauty of rural Minnesota. He attended school nearby until, at the age of 16, he moved with his family to Two Harbors, MN. While at a 4-H meeting, Vernon met Roxanna Mae Ebert, and their friendship blossomed into a romance. They were married on October 3, 1953, and began their life together.  As a young man, Vernon held various jobs, beginning at a mink farm working for $0.85 per hour and later earning $1.16 per hour at the railroad in Silver Bay. Vernon started his career with Rural Electric Co-Op and Power in 1955, becoming a lineman through on-the-job training. He also played a key role in building and wiring many homes in the Two Harbors area, including his own, where they welcomed three daughters.

In 1967, Vernon, Roxy, and their girls returned to the family farm in Sundal, where he embraced a life of farming, cultivating acres of wheat, barley, and oats, and adding dairy cattle in 1968. The farm also hosted pigs, chickens, horses, cats, and dogs. Vernon sold the cattle in 1976 and officially retired from farming in 1985, but he remained active in road construction and helping neighboring farmers. His industrious mind and busy hands earned him the affectionate nickname "Mr. Fix-It." As a skilled woodworker, Vernon was constantly immersed in projects of all sizes, crafting everything from log homes to intricate clocks and furniture. He poured his heart into his work, knowing his creations would be treasured for generations to come. He generously shared his talents, creating beautiful gifts for friends and family, as well as crafting items for the Fertile Fair, where he was a dedicated supporter and longtime 4-H leader.

Vernon was deeply involved with Sundal Lutheran Church, where he had been a lifelong member. He served as custodian, cemetery sexton, a trustee, and dedicated countless hours to lawn care, snow removal, and maintenance—a labor of love that reflected his heartfelt commitment to his faith. Vernon had a great sense of humor and an infectious smile. He loved to visit with family, friends, neighbors, and even people he met for the first time, never missing a chance to share a laugh or a warm conversation. In quieter moments, Vernon found joy in gardening, watching his favorite television shows, and spending time with his grandchildren. Above all, he cherished his family and was a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy of love, kindness, and hard work will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Vernon is survived by his wife of 71 years, Roxy of Fertile; three daughters: Sandy (Chuck) Hanson of Selby, SD, Sue (Mark) Bjornstad of Grand Forks, ND, and Penny (Harry) Aanden of Fertile, MN; four grandchildren: Sara (Mike) Herman, Jenna (Dustin Boe) Aanden, Jacob Aanden, and Brandee Hanson; four great grandchildren, Taylor, Lauren, Dylan and Austin; five siblings: Lloyd (Barb) Nelson, Allen Nelson, Marilyn "Dolly" Wilson, Jennifer Jones, and Nancy Mahady; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Myrtle; one grandson, Justin Hanson; his sister, Pearl Jones; one sister-in-law, Elia Nelson; three brothers-in-law: Robert Wilson, Donald Jones, and John Mahady; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 11, 2024, at 2:00pm, with a visitation one hour prior, at the Sundal Lutheran Church, rural Gary. Burial will be held at Sundal Cemetery, Gary.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.