James D. Nelson, age 81, of Kimball died peacefully at his home in Kimball on Thursday, June 13, 2013 surrounded by his loving family after battling a short bout with cancer.

In honor of Jim's wishes a private family memorial will be held.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donation may be directed to St. Croix Hospice, 2330 Troop Dr., Suite 102, Sartell MN 56377.

James David Nelson was born April 4, 1932 at Cook, MN to Ernest and Ruth (Larson) Nelson.  After attending Hibbing High School he enlisted in the U.S. Navy for 4 years serving during the Korean War.  In 1962 Jim moved to Lake Vermillion, Tower, MN and married Diane Knaus Jacobson in 1970.  Together with their family they owned and operated Moccasin Point Resort & Marina for over 45 years.  Jim was a Scorpion Snowmobile Dealer and operated the Trout Lake Truck Portage for many years.  He was a former member of many organizations on Lake Vermillion and was a current member of the Kimball Lions Club.  Jim and Diane enjoyed their time together in Minnesota during the summer and in Fort Meyers, FL & Gulf Shores, AL during the winter.  He will be remembered for being a loving husband and father, kind hearted friend, and his passion for fishing.  Throughout the years Jim has touched many lives; his kindness and wisdom will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife Diane of Kimball, children Sherry Belanger of Nashwauke, MN, Rhonda Jacobson of Pasadena, TX, Paulette (James) Masberg of Kimball, Craig (Brenley) Nelson of Tower, grandchildren Theresa (Tony) Feldhaus, Molly Belanger, Joseph (Kelly) Masberg, Keith Masberg, four great grandchildren, brother Richard (Verna) Nelson of Monticello, sister Mary (James) Burquist of Crystal Lake, IL, mother in law Laverne Knaus of Kimball, and many other family & friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, step mother Helia Nelson, sister Carol Nelson, and son in law Joseph Belanger.

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