Roger Nelson, 75, Owatonna

Roger Allen Nelson was born on Dec. 12, 1950, in Alta, Iowa, to Arvid and Lillian Nelson.

Roger attended school through the 10th grade before entering the workforce.

On Nov. 5, 1970, he married Wendy Meyer. Together they built a life filled with family, friendship, and cherished memories.

Throughout his life, Roger was known as a hardworking and dependable man who took great pride in providing for his family. Over the years, he worked in several occupations. He began as a milk delivery driver and later worked in Fulda, Minn. In 1982, Roger started working for Swift in Worthington, where he remained a dedicated employee until his retirement in 2012. Even after retiring, he enjoyed staying active and connected to his community, working part-time at Hy-Vee in Worthington from 2013 to 2016.

Roger found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, smoking meats, and watching classic Western movies. He was an avid collector of John Wayne memorabilia and admired the values and traditions represented by the iconic actor and his films. In recent years, he also enjoyed spending time working word-find puzzles.

Some of Roger’s happiest moments were spent on his patio, listening to birds sing, watching deer wander by, and admiring whatever critter happened to catch his attention. He found peace in nature and took great pleasure in observing the wildlife around him.

Roger genuinely loved people—especially the ones he liked, as he often joked. He enjoyed hosting visitors, sharing stories, engaging in conversation, and building lifelong friendships. Whether it was family, neighbors, church friends, caregivers, or someone he had just met, Roger had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome.

His home was often filled with laughter, conversation, and friendship. He valued relationships deeply and took a sincere interest in the lives of others, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Roger had a special love for his family, and his grandchildren will forever cherish the years he spent playing Santa Claus. He brought joy, laughter, and holiday magic into their lives, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

One of the greatest gifts Roger gave his family was his unwavering expression of love. At the end of every phone call or visit, he made sure those he cared about heard the words, “I love you.” Even in his final days, as life became more difficult, he continued to make his love known. That simple yet powerful habit became one of the most treasured parts of his legacy.

Spending time with his family was Roger’s greatest joy. Whether gathered for holidays, celebrations, or everyday moments, he cherished being surrounded by the people he loved most.

In the final chapter of his life, Roger was blessed with extraordinary caregivers, hospice nurses, and Pastor Amanda Floy. Their compassion, kindness, and support brought comfort not only to him but also to his family. The care they provided left a lasting impression, and the tears many shared alongside the family spoke volumes about the impact Roger had on those around him.

Roger’s legacy will be measured by the lives he touched, the conversations he treasured, and the countless times he reminded the people in his life that they were loved.

His family will miss hearing his voice at the end of a visit or phone call saying, “I love you.” Yet they carry those words forward, and because of that, a part of him remains with them always.

Roger was preceded in death by his wife, Wendy Nelson; his father, Arvid Nelson; his brother, Ronnie Nelson; his brother-in-law, Gary Meyer; and his sister-in-law, Laurie Nelson.

He is survived by his mother, Lillian Nelson; his children, Tricia (Andrew) Gengler of Medford and Christopher (Deb) Nelson of Chaska; his grandchildren, Bryant Gengler, Matthew Gengler (Brittany McClendon; sons Klay and Stetson), Alex Gengler (Cayton Hale), and Hayden Nelson; and his great-grandchildren, Caiden and Carson Gengler. He is also survived by his brothers, Randy Nelson, Bruce Nelson, and Gary Nelson; his sisters-in-law, Gail (Floyd) Radke, Peggy Meyer, and Connie (Jim) Berglund; along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shared their love, prayers, support, and condolences during this time of loss. Your kindness has meant more than words can express.

We also offer a special thank you to Pastor Amanda Floy and the hospice team for their exceptional care, compassion, and support. Their dedication brought comfort not only to Roger but to our entire family.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, with Pastor Amanda Floy officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.