Wilford Ray Nelson

Wilford Ray Nelson passed away on November 22, 2016 at the age of 80 at Veteran's hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Wilford Ray Nelson was born, along with his twin brother, Willard Kay, on November 26, 1935 to the late Walter and Alice Nelson at their farm near South Haven, Minnesota. He was predeceased by his youngest brother Roger Nelson, Palo Alto, CA. He is survived by his sister Linnea Grovender, St. Anthony, MN; brother, Willard Nelson, Denver, CO. Ray and his brother Kay were identical twins and in their early life only their parents and sister could tell them apart. Ray and Kay did everything together until they went into the Navy. They were in 4-H, enjoyed playing in the high school band, in which Ray played the tenor saxophone and Kay played the alto sax. They were in Future Farmers of America for which they judged dairy products and crops. After graduation they went to Trinity Bible College in Chicago, IL. When they came home they went for 90 days of naval reserve training in Michigan. They both proudly served their country in the Navy. When aircraft communication was up-dated Ray volunteered to take the training to be an aviation electrical technician. Several pilots asked to have him as an enlisted air crew member of their aircraft. Ray advanced quickly to Aviation Electrical technician, 1st class. Ray worked at Northern Ordnance Company and FMC as a machinist. Later he worked at a hardware store where he was able to give advice on what to purchase and how to use it. He has been President of the Fridley AA Club. He was very active in the club and worked in the kitchen for many years. Ray was generous with his friends and family. He loved to cook and share food and spend time with his friends. In March of 2015 Ray celebrated 47 years of sobriety. He attended Emanuel Christian Center in Fridley. A memorial service to celebrate Ray's life will be held on Sunday, December 18th, 2016 at the Fridley AA Club, 6279 University Ave. N. E. in Fridley MN at 2:00 P. M. Cards and memorials can be directed to the family. There will be a memorial service in Annandale, MN at a future date.