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Thomas (Tom) Nelson, age 76, of Blaine, passed away December 28, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born December 7, 1948, in Rush City, MN. Tom grew up in Center City, MN and attended Chisago Lakes High School. He joined the Army straight out of high school.

On May 22, 1971, Tom married his wife Carol in Ham Lake, MN. They were blessed with two children and raised their family in Blaine.

Tom retired from Ford Motor Company after 32 years of working at the plant. Following retirement he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He then picked up a route driving bus for K-12 students. Tom loved hunting in Kingsdale, gardening, and solving the daily crossword puzzles. He enjoyed annual pool parties, trips to McDonald’s, sharing Oreos, watching Wheel of Fortune, and over the top Christmas celebrations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Avis (Valleen) Nelson, brother Timothy Nelson, sister Patti Balsimo, and father-in-law Alan Jenkins.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Carol of 53 years; son Blake (Stacey); daughter Sondra; five grandchildren, Kyla, Adler (Kate), Kegan, Landyn, and Carter; brother Michael (Carol); mother-in-law Doris Jenkins, and by many other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at noon Thursday, January 2, 2025 with a visitation one hour prior at Kozlak-Radulovich Blaine Chapel, 1385 107th Ave. NE, Blaine.

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