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Lee Vitalis Nelson, age 93 of Lindstrom, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on January 18, 2026.

Lee was born January 10, 1933 in Lindstrom, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents; Paul and Lillian, sister Dorothy, son Todd, and beloved wife, Mary. Survived by his sister Mary (Dale) Schmitz and his children; Tony (Jeanne) Nelson, Julie Kunze, Shad (Maria) Nelson, his 7 grandchildren; Oesten Nelson, Christyn (Hudson) Keyler, Svea (David) Bach, Bridget (Nick) Sova, Nicole Nelson, Geoff Richie, Emily Kunze, his seven, soon to be eight great-grandchildren.

He was born, raised, and lived a full life in Lindstrom. As a young man, he served his country in the Army (1953-1955), operating a steam shovel and other heavy equipment during his deployment to Korea. Post deployment, Lee was stationed at Fort Riley in Kansas. While in Kansas he met the love of his life, Mary. 

Lee and Mary were married on June 16, 1956. They had four children, Tony, Todd, Julie, and Shad, and settled on the family farm in Lindstrom. Lee operated the dairy farm until 1971, when he teamed with Mary to become owners of the Coast to Coast Hardware Store in Lindstrom. They doubled the size of the hardware store within the first couple of years, and enjoyed being a part of the Lindstrom business community until they retired in 1992. 

In retirement, Lee enjoyed traveling with Mary, spending time with family, volunteering, and staying active at Trinity Lutheran Church. He had a reputation for making the best pancakes around, something he did often for family gatherings, and the annual pancake feed with the Masonic Lodge.

Lee was recognized as being a kind, caring, open minded, and hardworking man. His generosity and love touched the lives of countless people. He will be missed more than words can fully express, but his family takes comfort in knowing that he is with his beloved Mary in the kingdom of heaven.

Celebration of Life 11a.m. Friday, February 6, 2026 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom with visitation one hour prior to the service at church.  Interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.  

Arrangements by Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.  Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

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