James C. Nelson

James C. Nelson, age 86, of Faribault, MN, passed away April 23, 2025, at his home following an extended illness.

James Clair, the son of Clarence and Dorothy (Hostetter) Nelson, was born on October 2, 1938, in Faribault. He graduated from Faribault High School with the class of 1956, and Rochester Community College with a business degree. Jim married Gretchen Schwichtenberg on July 25, 1959, in Faribault. She preceded him in death on April 19, 2009. Jim, along with his brother Jerry, were instrumental in growing their family grocery business, Nelson’s Foods. On July 12, 2011, he married Becky Lenway. Jim’s passions and hobbies included Amateur Radio, operating R.C. aircraft, flying, boating, and building and restoring older boats.

He is survived by his wife, Becky Nelson; sons, Jay Nelson, and Mitch Nelson (Tim); seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren; brother, Jerry Nelson (Jan); son-in-law, John Furey; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gretchen; parents, Clarence and Dorothy; and daughter, Karla Ann Furey on July 21, 2019.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home, 1725 Lyndale Ave. N., Faribault. Private family interment will be at the Maple Lawn Cemetery in Faribault.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Allina Health Hospice of Owatonna in memory of Jim.