LeRoy E. Nelson, an esteemed member of the Grafton, North Dakota community, passed away on October 10, 2025, at the age of 85. His death occurred at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton, marking the end of a life characterized by dedication to family, work, and community involvement.
Born on January 5, 1940, in Grafton, LeRoy was the son of Everett and Stella (Hanson) Nelson. He completed his education in Grafton and graduated in 1959. Two years later, on February 18, 1961, he married Thelma Watkins at the Grafton Lutheran Church, establishing a home that became a hub for family and friends.
Throughout his life, LeRoy demonstrated a strong commitment to both his personal and professional communities. In his early years, he worked alongside his uncle on a farm near Hoople, North Dakota, and later joined Robertsons Lumber in Grafton. However, his most notable contribution came during his tenure with the Grafton Public Schools. Initially starting as a custodian at Chase School, he ascended to the role of Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds after the new high school opened in 1981. LeRoy retired in November 1996, at the age of 56, yet remained active in various capacities.
In addition to his work with the school district, LeRoy served as the custodian at Grafton City Hall, assisted with farming near Drayton, and contributed to a local funeral home. Even after his formal retirement, he continued to work for the Kirkeby family and later for the City of Grafton, where he managed the mowing responsibilities during his final years in the workforce. His exemplary work ethic was a hallmark of his character, instilling similar values in his daughters and grandchildren.
LeRoy’s community service extended beyond his employment. He was a devoted member of the Grafton Volunteer Fire Department, where he held the position of Secretary/Treasurer for over 40 years. His commitment to the community earned him the honor of being named Grafton’s Citizen of the Year in 2005. LeRoy was also known for his culinary skills, often preparing lutefisk for the annual dinner at Park River Bible Camp and volunteering for various church events.
His passion for gardening was evident in the well-maintained yard surrounding his home on East 3rd Street. LeRoy took pride in sharing the fruits of his labor with friends and family, reflecting his deep-rooted belief in community and togetherness.
Family was at the center of LeRoy’s life. He and Thelma raised three daughters: Monica (Chris) Olson of Fargo, North Dakota, Marcia (Chris) Olson of Grafton, and Melinda (Burrell) Nadeau of Andover, Minnesota. The arrivals of sons-in-law and grandchildren brought him immense joy. His first grandchild was a girl, which he celebrated by saying, “That’s what I wanted.” He later welcomed four great-grandchildren into the family.
LeRoy is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as his sister, Ann Estad. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Thelma; his parents; brother, Bennie Nelson; and in-laws, Willis and Marion Watkins.
Funeral services will be held on October 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Grafton Lutheran Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Military honors will be provided by the Grafton American Legion Post #41 and the North Dakota National Guard Honor Guard. Interment will take place at the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery.
For those wishing to share their condolences, an online guestbook can be found at www.tollefsonfuneralhome.com. The Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton is handling the arrangements. LeRoy E. Nelson’s legacy of service, hard work, and commitment to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
