Gary Roger “Fox” Nelson 1939 - 2017

HARDER, NELSON

Posted By: Connie Swearingen -Volunteer (email)
Date: 10/20/2017 at 21:08:10

Sioux City Journal
28 August 2017

Sioux City

Gary R. “Fox” Nelson, 77, of Sioux City, died Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and private family services were held. Arrangements are under the direction of Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City, 4125 Orleans Ave.

Gary Roger Nelson was born on Nov. 24, 1939, in Sioux City, the son of Oscar and Hazel (Harder) Nelson. Gary always enjoyed living in Sioux City and after graduating from the University of Denver, he returned to Sioux City and worked as a social worker for many years, and later worked for the State of Iowa as a parole and probation officer.

Gary will be remembered most for his sweet disposition and easy-going personality. He was honest, humble and always thought the best of those he met. Gary cherished his friendships, but first and foremost in his life was his family. He was very close to his wife through the years and cherished his two daughters, who always loved to cook and bake for him. He adored his grandson and was a very proud great-grandfather to his grandson’s daughter and extended family of two lovely granddaughters.

Gary was passionate about animals and sports. His favorite motto was, “I never met a dog I didn’t like.” He was a softball umpire and a basketball referee for many years. He played tennis, handball, racquetball and baseball.

Gary loved to go to the “Y” over the years. He played in many tennis tournaments and taught his grandson to play as well. He didn’t play football, but was proud to be his team’s football manager for three years in high school. His one regret was not learning to swim, yet still he taught his daughter to swim at the “Y” and taught her to ice skate at an outdoor rink in Sioux City. He once won the city championship doubles racquetball tournament as well.

He was an avid Red Sox fan so he rarely missed their games on TV. He was equally excited following the Iowa Hawkeyes games. He helped organize the church “Y” league basketball games and referee as well.

Gary was a religious man, and he would often quote passages from the Bible daily. He was a member of the First Christian Church. His best friend was his dog, Oliver who stayed next to him during his final days. He will most certainly be missed by everyone who knew him, and especially his family which is left to cherish their many memories of his life.

Gary is survived by his wife, Charlene; his daughters, Tonya McDonald and Natalie (John) Larsen; a grandson, Michael (his fianceé, Kasandra Smith) McDonald; and a great-granddaughter, Sophia McDonald.

He was preceded in death by his parents.