Harry W. Nelson, age 92, of Helena

Harry Waldemar Nelson, 92, passed away March 3, 2025 at Fort Harrison in Helena, MT of natural causes.

Harry was born January 27,1933 in Duluth, MN to Andrew and Hannah (Hanson) Nelson. Harry graduated from Denfeld High School in Duluth in 1950 and continued his education at the University of Minnesota. Harry entered the United States Air Force in 1952 separating in 1956 as Airman First Class. He entered the Minnesota Air National Guard servicing as Master Sergeant from 1957-1970.

In 1952 Harry met the love of his life, Grace Fisher and they married on October 16, 1954. The couple welcomed their daughter Tena in 1956 followed by Wendy in 1958.

Harry graduated from the University of Montana with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1970. Harry went on to become an auditor for the state of Montana until his retirement in 1986.

In his later years Harry was an active Mason and Shriner. He was a proud Member of Valley Lodge 21, serving as Worshipful Master in 2007.

When Harry wasn’t caring for his family, he enjoyed countless hunting and fishing trips with his great group of buddies. Harry was also a huge Indian motorcycle fanatic enjoying many rides through the years.

Harry is preceded in death by his father and mother, siblings, Helen Olson, Wallace Nelson, and Violet Nelson.

Harry is survived by his wife of 70 years, Grace Nelson; estranged daughter Tina McCoy; daughter Wendy Nelson; grandson, Josh (Heather) Glahn; grandchildren: Jazmin (Garret) King, Clinton (Lily) McCoy and Brenden McCoy; and five great-grandchildren Hendrix and Hennessey Glahn, Marley King, Lucas and Porter McCoy.

A Viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home with a Funeral to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A Reception will be held in the Social Hall of the funeral home following the service. Burial with Military Honors will be held at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Fort Harrison.

The family would like to thank the Fort Harrison staff for taking wonderful care of Harry in his final days. We would also like to thank all the professionals who helped Harry live in his home for as long as possible.

Service Schedule

Viewing

10:00 a.m.

Tuesday March 11, 2025

Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home

3750 N. Montana Ave.

Helena, Montana 59602

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Funeral Service

11:00 a.m.

Tuesday March 11, 2025

Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home

3750 N. Montana Ave.

Helena, Montana 59602

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Reception

Following the service

Tuesday March 11, 2025

Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home

3750 N. Montana Ave.

Helena, Montana 59602

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Burial with Military Honors

After the reception

Tuesday March 11, 2025

Montana State Veterans Cemetery

Fort Harrison, Montana 59636

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