Gary L. Nelson

Gary L. Nelson, 87 of Ladysmith, passed away in his sleep on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at Lake Manor in Ladysmith. He was born on July 23, 1938 to Lowell & Nora (Sibley) Nelson.

Gary married Ruth Werre in May 1961 in Illinois. Gary lived in Elgin, IL for 20+ years until his retirement after 30 years with Illinois Tool Works as a shift supervisor. Following his retirement, he relocated to Exeland in 1993 where he lived for 30+ years. He loved to hunt with his brother Stanley and nephews, Steve and Brett. He was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers. He loved to fish crappies and bass. He was a member of the Exeland Lutheran Church and was a US Army Veteran. Gary moved to Rice Lake for the past year and then relocated to assisted living in Ladysmith in February 2026.

He is survived by his step-daughter; Robin (John) Kmosena of Ladysmith, 2 brothers; Stanley Nelson of Ladysmith and Dan Nelson of Illinois and several nieces & nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; Lowell & Nora Nelson, 1 brother; Don and 3 infant sisters.

Gary wished to be cremated. A private gathering will take place with his family to spread his ashes on one of his favorite fishing lakes near Birchwood.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.