Ray Nelson

Ray Arman Nelson, 72, of Hager City, Wis. died Thursday, November 20, 2025 at his home with his family by his side. 

He was born June 15, 1953 in Manhattan, Kansas to Clair and June (Anderson) Nelson. He grew up in the Denver area and graduated from high school in 1972. He went on to study at Colorado State and later at Colorado Mesa University before receiving his degree from Metro State University in Minneapolis. 

On May 15, 1976 he married Susan Borst and together they raised three daughters. 

Ray worked hard throughout the years, including at ConAgra and Treasure Island. He retired as a supervisor from Bic. He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Ellsworth and the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the River Falls and Elmwood Sportsman's Club. 

The first love of Ray's life has always been his family, but his motorcycle is close second. Recently he also bought his dream car, a red Corvette. Ray was a faithful Packer fan, except when he was rooting for the Denver Broncos. He enjoyed being outside. He was always game for a good swimming pool party. Ray was fun, vibrant and always positive. He brought cheer with him wherever he went. 

Proud of his daughters, he was always there to support them and celebrate their many milestones. He carried on that tradition by enthusiastically supporting his grandchildren in their endeavors. Ray cherished his family and loved having everyone all together. His faith and positive attitude sustained him, and he would like you to remember, "It's gonna be a great day!"

He is survived by his wife, Susan; three daughters, Marinda (Dan Shockley) Nelson, Emily (Daniel) Flaker, and Raychel (Jesse) Ptacek; six grandchildren, Mason, Madely, and Evelyn Falker and Milly, Theodore and Nelson Ptacek; one sister, None (Wilber) VanWinkle; one brother, Clint (Patricia) Nelson; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family and many friends. 

He is preceded in death by one sister, Carol Stewart, and his parents. 

A Mass of Resurrection will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025 with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Ellsworth, Wis. and Celebration of life will follow at the parish hall of the church. Arrangements with the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Ellsworth Chapel.