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Wayne Nilson
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Wayne Nilson, age 83, of Rock Township, rural Sheyenne, ND, died Sunday, May 17, 2015 at his home under the care of family and hospice. Wayne Roger Nilson was born on November 5, 1931, in Rock Township, ND, to Leonard and Helen Nilson. He attended Sheyenne High School and graduated in 1950. He farmed with his father and eventually took over the farm. Wayne was united in marriage to Violet “Vi” Vannatta on December 4, 1971, in New Rockford, ND. They farmed side by side in Rock Township until his retirement. Wayne was active with the church and community over the years. He served on the Sheyenne Elevator Board and was a supervisor for Rock Township. Wayne was a lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church at Sheyenne, and served on the church council. He enjoyed varied activities, including having been a league bowler at Wonder Lanes in New Rockford. Wayne spent some time walking after a little white ball at the New Rockford Golf Course. He traveled with friends and family, and delighted in his yearly journey to Las Vegas, NV. Wayne is survived by his wife Vi Nilson, rural Sheyenne; two daughters Lois (Dan) Strehlow, Burnsville, MN, and Cheryl (Paul) Zafke, Emerado, ND; six granddaughters Crystal (Tim) Geier, Brooklyn, NY, Cybil Nelson, Lake Elmo, MN, Lauren Strehlow, San Francisco, CA, Leigh Strehlow, Fairbanks, AK, Diana Strehlow, Odai-Cho, Japan, and Ciara Zafke, Grand Forks, ND. Wayne also has two great-grandchildren Zachary and Jocelyn Geier; and one sister Audrey Neuhart, Parker, CO. He is survived by many nieces and nephews, and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family would like to say a special “Thank You” to Altru Hospice Service…Ashley, Amy, Amber and Farrah. Your care and compassion were greatly appreciated.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Grace Lutheran Church, Sheyenne, ND DATE AND TIME: Thursday, May 21, 2015 at 2:00PM BURIAL: Riverside Cemetery, Sheyenne, ND |
Posted Condolences:
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Name: Cheryl Nilson
Date: 5/21/2015
Message: My thoughts and prayers go out to you Vi, Audrey and all family. Wayne was a good man. Always easy to visit with, kind with quick wit. Definitely true family. I always thought he looked so much like Dad, their mannerisms were so much alike. I hope you can take comfort in knowing he was received in heaven with many loving open arms to bring him home. Love, Cheryl
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Name: Kathleen Neuhart-Painter
Date: 5/20/2015
Message: Auntie Vi and family,
Most of my good childhood memories are of the summers we spent on the farm. Uncle Wayne was the most kind person I have ever known and I loved him very very much. I am so grateful that you both allowed me and my children to visit you and once again see the farm. I will always be thankful that he found you, Auntie Vi, to share his life. I can not express how much sadness I am feeling now, but knowing that he had a loving family in all of us is helpful. My thoughts are with you. Love Kathy
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Name: Charles Thompson
Date: May 20, 2015
Message: To the Family of Wayne Nilson:
Wayne and his family lived only a quarter of a mile and across the road from where I grew up in Twin Tree Township - - Wayne and his family were in Rock Township - - - Wayne and his sister and my sister and me went to the same one room country school, Lone Tree School - - -in addition we spent many play and work times together - - our families did harvesting and haying together for several years - - I especially remember Wayne enjoying sports (basketball, baseball and hitting rocks with a baseball bat - - - after a season, the baseball bat was rather frayed) - - - all of this is to say that during those growing up years Wayne was a playmate, workmate and special neighbor and friend - - - may you, his family and friends, find comfort in knowing that "Christ is Risen" - - - peace and blessings: Charles Thompson
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Name: Sheri Ambris-Vern's oldest daughter
Date: 05-19-15
Message: Auntie Vi and family:
Sending my love and prayers to all. I didn't get to see him very often, but when you all came to California to visit he was very quiet, kind and had a great laugh. I remember him always walking around with his hands in his pockets. So sorry for your loss, and may his tired soul rest in peace.
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Name: Kent Greff
Date: 05/18/2015
Message: Vi and family,
I am saddened to learn of your loss. Wayne was a very special person. I first met him many, many years ago when my brother and I were allowed to go hunting with my father and Wayne. I really enjoyed those days. Fast forward many years into adulthood and I enjoyed bowling with Wayne on the Equity Elevator team. He was always so happy, encouraging, and pleasant. He had a unique and easy way about him and he will be missed. Wishing you strength in the days, weeks, and months ahead. With sympathy, Kent
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Name: Sandy Neuhart
Date: 5/18/2015
Message: Auntie Vi and family,
Uncle Wayne was always fun, kind and generous, and I always looked forward to our North Dakota vacations to get to see and spend time with him. I only had one uncle, but he had a heart big enough that I never felt I was missing anything. I am thinking of you, Auntie Vi, and your family. With love and sympathy, Sandy
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