Merrol S. Nelson (Nels) went to his Heavenly home Thursday, September 24, 2009, after a brief illness.\r\nMerrol was born December 7, 1924 to John and Minnie Nelson in Leeds, North Dakota. They later moved to Northfield, Wisconsin.\r\nMerrol served in the United States Navy from 1943-1946. During World War II, he was stationed in Tarawa, Iwo Jima and Eniwetok. \r\nHe worked for the Eau Claire Post Office for 33 years. After retirement, Merrol worked part-time at Sacred Heart Hospital for 27 years and continued to volunteer there until the time of his death.\r\nHe married Rosie Thalacker in 1959. On August 1, 2009, they celebrated 50 love filled years with family and friends. He was a wonderful and loving husband and best friend to Rosie, a devoted and caring dad to his children, Rick of Eau Claire, Randy (Kathy) of Chippewa Falls, and Marlys of Grove City, OH. He was an inspiration to his grandchildren, Travis, Angela, Stephanie, Michelle, Kelly, and Kim; and a spirited great-grandpa to 10 great-grandchildren.Merrol is also survived by other relatives and friends including his sister, Lyla; a son-in-law, Steve Barney; and a special canine companion, Bailey.\r\nMerrol was preceded in death by his parents; his beautiful daughter, Vicki; three brothers-in-law, Lyman, Irvin, and Vern. \r\nNels kept very busy with gardening, landscaping, carpentry work, cheering on the Packers, and volunteering. He was a warm and generous man who was always there for his family and friends. Christmas and birthday cards were never forgotten by him, he always found the special card to send. He had a smile that melted your heart and eyes that always twinkled. He was a huge John Wayne fan, but to his family, he was our John Wayne. \r\nAfter 55 years of singing for Grace Lutheran choir, he has now joined Heaven's choir.\r\nWe will be celebrating Merrol's life at 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 29, 2009, at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor David J. Irgens officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the church.

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