Obituary of Rodney Emil Nelson

Rodney Emil Nelson was born November 18, 1934 in Provost, Alberta. He was the second son of Carl and Elizabeth Nelson of Metiskow, Alberta. Rodney attended the Science School for his entire schooling. Rodney had a short stint in the workforce in Olds, Alberta. Although he realized work off the farm was not his calling, he did meet the love of his life Carole Anne Evans of Regina, Saskatchewan in Calgary, Alberta during this time. After a short courtship, they got married November 12, 1960 in Calgary. After their marriage, Rodney brought the city girl and love of his life to the family farm. They were blessed with two children: Michael Rodney Nelson was born June 4, 1962, and Debra Kaye was born on October 19, 1964. Rodney’s dearest passions were family, friends, and his neighbors. His other passions included his cattle, his sheep, the land, and of course the Case 500! Rodney worked many of hours with cattle, and on the land – sometimes it was even with his own land and cattle. He always loved silaging at the Sanachan’s, helping work cattle, or doing any other work a neighbor wanted help with. These neighbors included the Downing’s, Halvorson’s, Rueben and David, Butch’s, Kemper’s, Froland’s, Bullock’s, Margaret Kvigstad, and of course Ralph and Cecil Stewart. Rodney never viewed any of this as work, he just believed ‘it was part of being a friend and a good neighbor and he’d leave with a wink, a nod, and a wave. Rodney and Carole were both very community minded. They were heavily involved with the Metiskow Ag Society, Metiskow Discing Club, and numerous churches. One of Rodney’s proudest accomplishments was being part of building the New Hope Gospel Church in Provost, Alberta. Rodney and Carole had trips they enjoyed tremendously including Nebraska, Vegas, and Minot. They both truly shared the love of live music, but their pride was being involved in their children’s, grandchildren’s, and great grandchildren’s lives whether it was sporting events, plays, Christmas concerts, birthday parties, and family celebrations. Family was especially important to both of them and is a trait which has been passed on to their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. They shared many special memories that will be remembered fondly by all the family. For those that have not seen the video Carry on, Farmer. Carry On. (https://youtu.be/JovpVqHcVsc) that can be found on You Tube, which includes Rodney and Carole, this video really exemplifies Rodney’s character and passion for the farming lifestyle. As Tim McGraw sang and Rodney lived: Always be humble and kind. Rodney passed away on November 23, 2020 at the Provost Health Centre at the age of 86 years. Rodney will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his son, Michael (Tammy) Nelson; daughter, Debbie (Brian) Scherger; grandchildren, Aaron (Sabrina), Brittany (Jesse), Nicole (Chris), Spencer, Sydney (Noah), Tyler and Michaela; great grandchildren, Ryan, Hudson, Harper, Dereck, Heath, Ryker and Hadlee; as well as numerous other relatives and friends. Rodney was predeceased by his wife, Carole; parents, Carl & Elizabeth Nelson; biological mother, Mildred Erickson. Sadly, with the existing restrictions within Covid 19, the funeral with be limited to a private family service. Please know, even though we will be missing your physical presence that day, you will certainly be in our hearts. Your overwhelming support and understanding will be forever appreciated. .