Wayne Nelson, 78, Blooming Prairie

Wayne “Smiley” A. Nelson, age 78, of Blooming Prairie, formerly of Owatonna, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Prairie Manor Care Center in Blooming Prairie.

Smiley was born on March 24, 1948, in Blooming Prairie, to Mervin and Marilyn (Hunter) Nelson. He graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1966. Smiley served in the U.S. Army in Germany from February 1968 to February 1970 as a SP4, Class E4.

He worked as a tree trimmer for the National Tree Service in Owatonna for 30 years. He was also a member of the IBEW Local 160.

Smiley was a proud member of the Blooming Prairie American Legion for 38 years and a longtime member of the Eagles in Owatonna. He enjoyed fishing, traveling with family and golfing, and in his younger years he enjoyed bowling and softball leagues.

Smiley is survived by his siblings, Cheryl Olson of Blooming Prairie, Michael Nelson of Blooming Prairie, Linda Wyant of Albert Lea, and Keven Nelson of Blooming Prairie; nieces and nephews, Ray, Leah, Aaron, Damon, Cosy, Carstin, Lisa, Becky, Nick, Brandon, and Ashley; many great-nieces and great-nephews; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Marilyn and Vince Thoreson; father, Mervin Nelson; infant sisters, Carol and Betty Nelson; brothers, Steve and Ray Nelson; and brothers-in-law, Larry Wyant and Roy Olson.

The memorial service for Smiley will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will be in the Blooming Prairie City Cemetery.

Hoff Celebrations – Blooming Prairie Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.