Roger V. Nelson
1944 - 2026
Roger V. Nelson, age 81, of Anthon passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Downtown in Sioux City.
A Funeral Service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with visitation held prior in the Anthon Community United Methodist Church in Anthon. Rev. Todd Schlitter officiated. Committal Services followed in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Anthon.
The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Anthon was in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
Roger was born on November 22, 1944, in Sioux City to Victor E. and Dorathy (Hansen) Nelson. He grew up in the Anthon-Oto area and graduated from Anthon-Oto High School with the Class of 1963.
On March 6, 1964, Roger married his longtime sweetheart and classmate, Shirley Brant. Their story began many years earlier as the two had known each other since the third grade. Together, Roger and Shirley built a life centered around family, faith, and farming, and in March of 2026, they celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
Roger began his working career with Wilson Trailer Company before following his lifelong passion for farming. He later farmed in partnership with his son, Wade, raising cattle and hogs along with corn, soybeans, and hay. Roger was happiest working on the farm and had a natural talent for mechanics, always enjoying the opportunity to work on and repair machinery.
In addition to farming, Roger worked as a janitor and maintenance person for the Anthon-Oto School District. He took great pride in his work and continued in that role until back surgery prevented him from working. Even then, his love for farming and mechanical work remained an important part of who he was.
Roger enjoyed traveling and made several memorable trips throughout the years, including visits to Louisville, Kentucky, and California. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he always looked forward to their visits to the farm. Some of his favorite memories were made taking them fishing at neighborhood ponds and simply enjoying time together.
Roger was a faithful member of the Anthon Community Methodist Church. He was also a steadfast and devoted supporter of Shirley throughout her ministry, standing faithfully beside her and encouraging her in her service to others.
Farming may have been Roger's lifelong passion, but his greatest joy was found in the family he loved and the life they shared together.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley Nelson of Anthon; children, Mark (Dixie) Nelson, Wade Nelson (special friend, Brenda Bills and Family) of Anthon, Rebecca (Dave) Mogensen of Sioux City, and Tony (Dezeri) Nelson of Lawton; sisters-in-law Rebecca Nelson of South Sioux City, NE and Linda Brant of Charles City, IA; grandchildren: Josh (Ashley) Nelson of Moville, Laken Nelson of Sioux City, Will Mogensen of Lake Park, Jack Mogensen and Aidan Mogensen of Sioux City, Nick Nelson of Lawton, Kaylie Murray of McCook Lake, SD; and great grandchildren: Shaelyn Nelson, Karsen, Jaxsen and Leigha Cooley.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Dorathy Nelson; sisters Gaylene Nelson and LaDonna Greenfield; brother Steve Nelson; sister-in-law Alene Johnson; as well as his in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews and his very special canine friend, Mickey.
Debra "Deb" Oberreuter, 68, of Sioux City passed away on September 4, 2026.
Melvin "Pat" B. Krayenhagen, age 90, of Battle Creek passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Unity Point HealthSt. Lukes Regional Hospital in Sioux City.