Paul Nelson

Nelson, Paul J. age 76, of Emily, Minn., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on February 8, 2020. Preceded in death by parents, Don and Lili Nelson, and brother, David Nelson. Paul graduated from Benilde High School in 1962 and then attended St. John’s University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1966. His career started at Red Owl where he worked his way to Director of Grocery Operations. He continued his career in the grocery business while working as the President of Hancock Nelson and Hartz Foods. After leaving Hartz Foods, he and his wife, Tracy, opened Rough Around the Edges, a home decor and unique gifts store in Crosslake, which they ran for 15 years. Paul never fully retired but was able to enjoy time with family and friends, reading–a hobby he enjoyed his entire life, woodworking, fishing, boating and enjoying the view. Paul was a generous, kind, loving man who lived by the philosophy “just be nice” and whose door was always open to anyone. He will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Tracy; children, Angie (Brian) Tremblay, Stephanie (Brandon) Sassenberg, Jonathan Nelson; Jessica (Erik) Sebold; 10 grandchildren, Ashley, Caitlin, Nicholas, Olivia, Rylee, Austin, Lexie, Hudson, Foster and Graham; sister, Connie (Kevin) Hipe; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Funeral service Tuesday, February 18, 2 pm at Brenny Family Funeral Chapel Baxter/Brainerd 7348 Excelsior Rd., Baxter, MN 56425 with a one-hour visitation preceding the service at 1 pm.

Contributions can be made to the Salvation Army in memory of Paul at https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/PJNelson and/or flowers are welcome.