John “Jack” Nelson

John “Jack” Nelson, 81, of Staples, MN died March 30, 2020 at Lakewood Health System Care Center in Staples, MN. The family will hold a private ceremony and interment on April 4, 2020. A celebration of life ceremony will be held at a future date when the current circumstances have been resolved. Arrangements are with Brenny Funeral Home and services held at Faith Lutheran Church in Staples, MN with Pastor Carl Larson officiating.

Jack was born on April 23, 1938 in Cannon Falls, MN to John C. and Dorothye (Wiederstrom) Nelson. He graduated from Clinton High School and Concordia College, Moorhead. Jack was united in marriage to Delores “Dee” Djonne on September 7, 1963 in Clinton, MN. They moved to Staples in 1969 where he taught elementary school and was principal of the elementary and high school and Superintendent of Staples/Motley High School, retiring in 1994.

Jack had a passion for educating others, empowering educators and being active in his community and Faith Lutheran Church. He enjoyed playing and watching sports and was proud of his time at Concordia College. He was always extremely supportive of his children and his grandchildren. He set high expectations, but always had a listening ear and was their number one cheerleader for all of their successes.

Jack is survived by his children, Jackie (Chad) Campbell of Paynesville, MN, Todd (Susan Galloway) Nelson of Jamestown, ND, Heidi (Kai) Brings of Staples, MN; grandchildren, Jared, Kjerstin, and Claire Campbell, Natasha, Marie and Alex Brings; sister, Judy Nelson, brother-in-law Howard (Bernice) Djonne; sister in law, Marcile Djonne; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, parents and his brother, Jim.