"Happy bday old friend! I wish I could have said goodbye Jack was a kind man and my very best friend a couple years back when no one else would be my friend and when I needed one the most because of him and his live for bikes he introduced me to the world of bikes and I too became very fond of them. He helped me when no one else would I took him a bike that was way too big for me and he traded me my first beach cruiser a hiawatha the ladies edition to his bike I was very honored and grateful and hooked on bikes. from then on I vowed to always help people who couldn\'t get a bike to get one. Four years ago I opened up the fullcycke bike exchange offering free bikes to anyone who needed them. Due to property issues I had to close it down but plan in starting it up again when I open up community outreach center this year and it will be called the Jack nelson bike foundation because his work meant so much to so many people. I will miss you my friend and think if you everyday when I see all my bikes. I\'m sorry I wasn\'t there when and before you passed last time I saw you you thought I was your wife and it was too hard to see you. Heaven was given angel and I hope your watching down on me forever. Until we meet again your legacy will live on...xoxo "
In loving memory of
Jack Nelson
December 13, 1921 - August 26, 2021
Jack Bernard Nelson, 99 of Winona, died Thursday, August 26, 2021 at his home.
Jack was born December 13, 1921 in Buxton, Iowa. He was raised in Winona, MN where he graduated from Winona Senior High School. He served his country honorably in the United States Navy during WWII as a 2nd class Petty Officer. He worked for the City of Winona for many years in the Wastewater Treatment Plant. On October 10, 1953, he married his sweetheart, Betty Mullen. They spent many wonderful years together until her passing in 2009.
Jack loved the outdoors, especially being in the sun. He enjoyed going for bicycle rides, motorcycle rides, fast cars and car auctions. He also treasured being on the water as well as water skiing, which he was even able to do into his 70's. He was talented in being able to repair bikes, motorcycles, cars, just about anything he could get his hands on. He fixed up and sold many bikes throughout his day. His two granddaughters, Morgan and Madison were his true pride and joy.
He is survived by his daughter, Joni (Ted) Benson and two granddaughters, Morgan & Madison Benson.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; daughter, Jayne Nelson; and his parents, Victor and Mabel (Nelson) Matson.
Jack's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Winona Police Department for the care, compassion, and friendship to Jack over the years. Also, his two amazing caregivers, Emily Holden and Kelsey Erickson for making it possible for Jack to remain in his home as well as his neighbors for always watching out for him.
Per his wishes, services will be held privately, and he will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In his memory, go for a long bike ride, donate a bike to someone in need or sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.
Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family with arrangements. Cards may be mailed to: Hoff Funeral Home, c/o Jack Nelson Family, 3480 Service Drive, Goodview, MN 55987. www.hofffuneral.com
Tributes
"Our sympathy to the family. While we didn\'t know Jack very well, we knew where he lived and always enjoyed when he drove past our house on South Baker street and would holler and wave."
"Our sympathy to the family. While we didn\'t "
"Joni, Ted, Morgan & Madi, Everyone loved Uncle Jack! It is always so difficult losing a loved one but know he is at peace and with Aunt Betty and the rest of the crazy family. I will miss driving by the house, when in town and seeing Uncle Jack waving and whooohooing everyone. One memory that sticks out, although there are so many. I was spending the weekend, which I did often, I lost a tooth, Uncle Jack made sure the tooth fairy came for me and left a dime under my pillow. That?s exactly what a caring man he was in his own way. I will miss him so very much! All my love to all of you! Kelly Welch"
"Joni, So sorry for the loss of your dad! Thoughts and prayers for you and your family! Anita Otto-Kamrowski"
"We have been here over 30 years and Jack was one of the first neighbors we met. We thought he was a little kooky at first but how could you just not love Jack. Loved seeing him riding around the block with a Yoo Hoo as he went by the kitchen window. He will be missed by many. Heartfelt sympathy to Joni and family. ?"
"My late husband Maynard enjoyed his stories over coffee. It was a blessing to know him."
"Join and family, I\'m so sorry for your loss. I loved his sense of humor. My husband Maybard enjoyed his ssf stories il before goffee."
"Joni, May you find peace knowing that your Dad lived a great life, my prayers to you. God Bless, Tammy Seebold, Class of 1982 "
"I just loved Uncle Jack for his gregariousness, humor, and always having a smile. He was loved by many who knew him and will be remembered for his fun loving nature, and his bicycle repairs, selling and giving them from his garage in recent years. My condolences to Joni, his daughter, and his granddaughters Madi and Morgan. Love to you all. Know that he is at peace and with Aunt Betty now. "