Loy Nelson

MASKELL—Loy G. Nelson, 83, Maskell, died suddenly from an auto accident Sept. 17, 2026, near Wagner, S.D. Funeral services will be Sept. 23, at 10:30 a.m., at Faith Lutheran Church, Maskell, with the Rev. Chad Beckius officiating. Burial of his cremated remains will be at the Maskell Cemetery. Urn bearer will be Paula Dendinger. Visitation was Tuesday at the Wintz Funeral Home, Hartington. Visitation will continue Wednesday with the family, one hour prior to services. Arrangements are under the direction of the Wintz Funeral Home, Hartington. Loy was born March 13, 1943, in Maskell, to Donald M. and Sylvia J. (Gregg) Nelson. He grew up in the country, learning at a young age how to hunt, fish, ride horses, milk cows and, most importantly, how to be resourceful. He met his “honey babe,” Karen Kay (Whelchel), and they were married Dec. 10, 1962. They lived in Sioux City, Iowa, for a short time before moving to Junction City, Kan., where Loy worked on a dam. They eventually returned to the Maskell area, where they would build their life together.

Loy worked several jobs throughout the years, including trimming trees, farming, raising hogs, working at IBP, and working for Klinger Construction, Chris Hanson Construction, and Taylor Construction. He eventually found a partner in Bob Meyer, and together they formed Meyer-Nelson Contracting.

Through the years, Loy and Karen worked side by side, very hard, to create a good life for each other and their family. They raised hogs and horses and built a life filled with hard work, family, and adventure.

Loy was a true cowboy. He trained many horses, both for himself and for others, and he loved to team rope, as a heeler. He enjoyed hunting with his family and friends, fishing, and camping. These were things he loved and proudly passed on to his children and grandchildren. Life was an adventure to Loy. He proved that when, at the young age of 40, he decided to learn how to snow ski. With Karen by his side, life was good, and together they believed they could do and get through anything.

Loy was a true protector and provider for his family. He was quick-witted and usually had advice, whether you wanted to hear it or not. He spoke his mind, and he never pretended to be someone he wasn’t.

He was an awesome dad and an amazing grandpa. He loved Martin Irvin (1963–1983) and Tara Lynn with all his heart. His love for his family only continued to grow through the generations.

Being a great-grandpa, or “Papa,” was his latest role, and he took it on with so much love and pride. He said many times that Millie Kay was the reason he got up in the morning. Loy told us many times, “I’ve lived a good life,” and he did. But more than that, he gave us a good life.

He is survived by his daughter, Tara Lynn (Darrell) Wieseler, Maskell; grandchildren, Marti (Ethan) Pfister, Maskell, and Colby (Jenna) Carlson, West Point; and great-granddaughter, Amelia “Millie” Kay Pfister, Maskell; and a sister, Linda (Francis) Ausdemore, Ponca.

Loy was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Sylvia; wife, Karen; son, Marty; and grandson, Emmanuel Carlson; brothers, Martin and Larry; and sisters, Ivadell Burcham and Adell Bennett.

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