Gary N. Nelson , 72, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, March 25th, 2023.

Gary Norman Nelson was born on December 23, 1950 in Grand Forks, ND the son of Carl and Joyce (Cashman) Nelson.  He was raised in Grand Forks and graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1968. Shortly after graduation, Gary enlisted in the United States Army and served as an infantryman during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged from active military service on January 17, 1972.

Gary started his career as a firefighter shortly after leaving the Army. Gary was a jack of all trades and took on various side jobs in addition to his firefighting duties, which included running a painting and construction business. Gary married Sharon Grabinski in 1988. He was known for his sense of humor, gentle and caring nature, and his love for hunting, fishing, watching baseball and football, and spending time with family. Gary retired from firefighting on January 22, 2006, with numerous awards.

Gary was more than just a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was someone who had an extraordinary ability to light up any room he entered with his infectious laugh and quick wit. His sense of humor was legendary, and he had a way of making everyone feel at ease with his easy-going nature.

Gary's family and friends will remember him as a devoted husband, who always put his family first, a loving father who taught his children the importance of hard work and perseverance, and a cherished grandfather who never missed an opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchild. He was immensely proud of his family and always made sure they knew how much he loved them.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Nelson, his children, Christy (Mark) Weiland and Chad (Kylene) Nelson, as well as his siblings, Donald (Vickie) Nelson, Douglas Nelson, Charles Nelson, and Carol Nelson. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Donald (Lynn) Grabinski, and his grandchildren, Ashley (Bryan) Midgarden, Madison (Carter) Hunter, Trevor Weiland, Emilee Novak-Smith, Wesley Nelson, and LilaMarie Nelson, as well as great-grandchild, Kenzie Midgarden.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents.

While he may be gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Gary Nelson was a truly one-of-a-kind individual who touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed.

Memorial Service: 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 30, 2023, in the Historic Norman Funeral Home Chapel.
Family Greeting: One hour prior to the service in the funeral home on Thursday.
Honor Guard : Firefighters of the City of Grand Forks Fire Department.
Military Honors: Accorded by members of the American Legion Post 157, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817, and the North Dakota Army National Guard.
Interment: In the spring, at Memorial Park South Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.