St. James, MN - Joel Paul Nelson, 88, of St. James, MN, died August 29, 2024, surrounded by his family in Mankato, MN.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 4, 2024 from 5-8pm and on Thursday 9-10am at the Sturm Funeral Home, St. James Chapel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. James Catholic Church on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 10:30 am. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in St. James.

Military rites will be performed by the St. James Area Veterans Honor Guard.

Joel Paul Nelson was born in Madelia, MN on November 7, 1935 to Joseph and Ovedia Nelson. He grew up in the Hanska area and graduated from Hanska High School. After graduating, Joel served in the United States Navy and remained very proud of his military service. Joel married Marilyn Rose Hanson at the St. James Catholic Church and they were happily married for 59 years. He worked at S-T Industries for over 35 years and then worked as a veteran's service officer until 2003. Joel served the community in various capacities; he was the American Legion Commander, adjutant, gambling manager, baseball manager and served with the Knights of Columbus.

In his free time, he enjoyed wood working, gardening, attending his grandchildren's sporting events, and cheering on the Minnesota Gophers, Twins and Vikings. Joel took pride in his home and worked hard to expand and remodel over the years. He and Marilyn loved to travel the United States, often with family and friends. His family was his whole world and his family loved him very much. He could often be heard humming his favorite country and polka music, cracking jokes, and was always seen with a warm smile.

Joel is survived by his wife, Marilyn Nelson of St. James; sons, Bill (Shari) Nelson, Barry (Chastity) Nelson, both of St James; sisters, Janice Sorgatz of Mankato, Angela (Al) Sack of Waseca; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Joshua Nelson; sister, Ramona (Burton) Broste and niece, Cheryl Broste; brother, Noren (Diane) Nelson; in-laws, Elwood Wright, Don Carlson, Mel & Audrey Roiger, Dennis & Helen Hanson, Howard Hanson, and Harlan Hanson.

Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in St. James. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.