Lyle D. Nelson, age 90, of Minneapolis, MN, passed away on June 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born December 23, 1934, in Cando, North Dakota, Lyle was the beloved son of Johanna (Swenson) Nelson, originally from Norway, and Carl Nelson, originally from Denmark. He grew up in Cando, where he excelled in his studies and graduated as valedictorian of Cando High School’s class of 1952.

He continued his education at North Dakota State University, earning his degree in engineering and participating in the ROTC. After graduation, he was hired as a draftsman in the engineering department of Northwestern Bell. In June 1958, he married the love of his life, Myrna (Erickson) Nelson, embarking on a partnership that would last a lifetime.

In January 1959, Lyle was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army, serving in the Air Defense Artillery at Ft. Bliss and Ft. Lawton. He later continued his service as a proud member of the US Army Reserves, receiving several awards including the Legion of Merit Award, ultimately retiring as a Colonel after 29 years.

Upon returning to civilian life, he resumed work at Northwestern Bell and was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Moorhead City Council and ran for the statewide office of Public Service Commissioner in 1968 (at age 33), narrowly missing election by less than one percent of the vote.

In December 1968, Lyle began a 28-year career with the State of Minnesota as an engineer in the State Architect’s office. His commitment to public service extended beyond his career—he was a dedicated member of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer (where his handyman skills were put to good use), served as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop #25 for six years, and worked as an election poll worker. Lyle was also a proud member of American Legion Post 548, where he served as Post Commander for several years.

A man of many interests and boundless curiosity, Lyle traveled extensively with Myrna and his church friends, visiting Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Rome, Ireland, England, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. He also worked as a real estate agent for five years and part-time with UPS for eight years. He enjoyed vacations in Door County and cherished the time spent with family there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johanna and Carl; his sisters, Irene Christianson (Robert), Evelyn Holt (Edward), and Clara Nelson; and his son, David Nelson.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Myrna; his son Scott (Jayne) Nelson; his daughter Karen (Sandra Tennyson) Nelson; grandchildren, Benjamin, Matthew, Cody and Tyler; and great-grandchildren, Clara and Elsie.

Lyle will be remembered for his integrity, dedication to family and community, and his unwavering sense of service. He leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer 285 Dale Street St. Paul, MN 55103 on Saturday, June 28th, at 11AM. Visitation 10AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer 285 Dale Street St. Paul, MN 55103 and/or Isaiah 2356 University Ave. W #405 St. Paul, MN 55114.