Gary Lee Nelson

Gary L. Nelson of Eau Claire passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday May 10, 2025 at the age of 86. He was born on August 30, 1938  to Norman and Lillian Nelson. Gary Lived a life marked by kindness, warmth and a deep love of family and community.

Gary shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with his high school sweetheart and beloved wife June (Teasdale)Nelson.  Together, they built a loving home a legacy that continues through their children and grandchildren.

He grew up with strong midwestern values that shaped a life marked by kindness, integrity, and devotion to family. He was proud to be a part of the Kentucky Colonels and attended the Kentucky Derby several times with his wife.

Gary is survived by his daughter Gwendolyn (John) Saxe and son Todd L. (Karen) Nelson; sister Patricia Nelson; brother-in-law Lewis Teasdale. Grandchildren Timothy Saxe, Katharyn Saxe, Elizabeth (Michael) Fuerst, Jonathan Nelson and Anna Nelson. He was blessed with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that were inspirational in his life.

Gary retired July 2000 from Pope & Talbot, Inc. after 43 years as a machine maintenance technician and oiler. In his retirement Gary found a second home with Farrell Equipment & Supply, where he was always ready to lend a hand wherever needed.  Whether it was assembling wheelbarrows, helping at the open house events, countless other small but meaningful tasks, Gary gave his time and heart generously, leaving a lasting impact on everyone around him. Gary’s greatest joy came from his family, pouring his heart into every moment with his children and grandchildren. He was a remarkable man a beloved friend, father, and grandfather! Gary could light a room with his energy and make you feel like family from the moment you met him. He loved sharing stories about his prized vehicles & antiques he had collected over the years, each holding a special place in his heart, he had a way of making those memories come to life like no one else. He had an easy, generous way about him that made people feel heard, seen and valued. His warm-hearted spirit touched many and will be deeply missed.

Our Father’s passing leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory that no one can steal. And we are comforted that he is reunited with his wife, June whom is missed each and every day.

Funeral services for Gary will take place at 11 am on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Saving Grace Lutheran Church 3735 Jeffers Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 with Pastor David Irgens officiating.  Visitation will take place from 4-6:30 p.m. on Monday May 19, 2025 at Hulke Family Funeral Home and on Tuesday morning at the church from 10 am until the time of service.  Committal service will take place at the Eleva Cemetery in Eleva, Wisconsin at 3 pm on Tuesday afternoon. To view attend the service virtually please use the link provided https://saving-gracechurch.com/worship/sundays-live/

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.  Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

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