Current Services

Kenneth “Kenny” Leroy Nelson
12-27-2025

Kenneth “Kenny” Leroy Nelson was born August 21, 1953, to Emily and Carl Nelson in Flandreau, SD. Kenny was a man with a sense of humor that made people laugh and sometimes left you speechless. He passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

Kenny was joined in marriage on July 13, 1974, to Deloris (Oberg) Nelson. Together they raised five children, starting their life together in a two-bedroom home. Kenny remodeled it several times to accommodate everyone. A very intelligent man, he could do anything he set his mind to. Employed in many different fields throughout his lifetime, from landscaping and blacktop to autobody, he ended his career as a custom welder.

In his free time, he had a wide range of hobbies. He worked on his brother-in-law’s pit crew in his youth, but later enjoyed restoring old cars, hunting, fishing, and camping. He left many fond memories for those who joined him on these adventures.

Kenny loved his children and grandchildren and was always excited to meet every new baby with a cuddle and a booming, “Hello there!”

Kenneth is survived by his daughters: Theresa McDonnell and Laura Zapata (Michael Richards); his sister: Linda (Kelly) Egan; 17 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Deloris; his sons, Christopher James, James Lee, and Carl Leroy; his parents, Emily and Carl; his sisters, Loretta, Ruth Anne, and Doris; and his brother, David.

A private family service will be held.