Nels Lynn Rowsey-Wilkins, Jr. Obituary
On January 3, 2022 in Portland, Oregon, our life’s long fear became reality. Our beloved son, Nels Lynn Rowsey-Wilkins, Jr. died from a drug overdose.
Anyone who knew Nels, knew that he struggled with his drug addiction his whole life. Not only did he battle that demon, he was diagnosed at an early age with Asperger’s Syndrome and ADHD.
Nels did not have an easy life, but he did the best that he could.
Nels was born to Jeanie Wilkins Oliver and Nels Wilkins on October 17, 1986 in Helena, MT, joining his 2 half-brothers, Cleve and Clint Culver.
Early on, Nels was a ‘loner’ type of kid. He spent many days riding his bike around the neighborhood and visiting Forestvale Cemetery.
Somehow, Nels became infatuated with movie stars. He would write letters to many of them and received signed photos back from Betty White, Bob Hope, Elizabeth Taylor, to name a few. He totally admired Myrna Loy, in fact on her 100th Birthday, Nels made the cover of the IR carrying flowers to her grave.
He even tried his own hand at acting about a year ago. He spent a 12 hour day filming with Kevin Costner and the Yellowstone film crew, only to have the entire scene deleted from the series.
Nels was in Cub Scouts for several years and in the Royal Ranger program at the First Assembly of GOD church. Back then, he was so shy and wouldn’t talk, so his Royal Ranger group dubbed him, ‘Silent Buffalo’.
He also loved camping, swimming, hiking and exploring the Ghost Towns around Montana.
A few years back, his dad was lucky to have him make the trek into Leigh Lake near Libby with him a few times, which was very memorable for both of them.
Nels was always the Champion of the underdog. As a teenager, he knew the pain of being bullied and being attacked. Nels’ speech at the Montana Legislature helped change legislation and strengthened the Montana Gay-Straight Alliance.
Nels had strong beliefs and wasn’t afraid to express them.
Nels attended area schools and the Helena College U of M with a dream of becoming a Psychiatric Social Worker. Nels had a big heart and was compassionate and loving. Prior to his death, he was employed as a Caregiver for Alexandra Prins, whom he had met while living In Henderson, NV. Nels and her and his support dog Jadyn traveled the west coast landing in Oregon, a life-long dream for Nels.
Nels loved his family and friends: Kat, Shadow, Bruce, Ashley, Diana, Austin, Hayley, Lenna and Tyler and especially his Aunt Mary, to name a few.
He had a great sense of humor and a style all his own. We called him a chameleon because we never knew what color of hair or threads that he would be in.
Nels leaves behind his parents, Jeanie and Nels, his two half-brothers, Cleve Culver and wife Tohlina and Clint Culver and wife Rachel, all from the Helena area and his Grandmother, Anna May Oliver from Lusk, WY. Nels is also survived by his 4 nieces who he adored, Lexie, Cara, Leah, and Livia, along with many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.
We always told Nels that:
‘To the World you may be one person, but to One Person you may be the World’
And he will forever be.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, February 3rd at 2:00pm at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home
In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider making a Donation to an Animal Shelter, as Nels was huge animal lover.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00
Thursday February 3, 2022
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00
Thursday February 3, 2022
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
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Jeff and Elaine Applin says
Nels, Jeanie and Family,
We are so sorry to here about the passing of your son Nels Jr. We pray for your comfort during
this difficult time.
Jeff and Elaine Applin
Joan Heberly says
Jeanie and family. I’m thinking of you ♥️
Joan Heberly
John Cornell says
Nels, Jeanie & family,
Our whole family is very saddened to learn of Nels’ passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time.
John & Shauna Cornell family
Greg and Cathy Kovich says
Nels and family, so sorry for your loss. May Nels Jr finally be at peace and everyone’s worry and hurt be over as he tried to find happiness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nancy Schmauch says
Nels and family. We are so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear son. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Mike and Nancy Schmauch
Cathryn English-Straub says
I remember a sweet, smart, funny, compassionate kid that loved Elvis, had built an entire city in his back yard and was curious about the world. I am holding you in my head and heart. Thank you for sharing the struggles and bright spots in Nel’s life. Cathryn English-Straub
Joan Smith says
Nels and family, I am so sorry to hear this and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jim and Sally says
Nels, Jeanie and family
We are so sorry and so sad that this has happened. I am sure he is now in a much better place. Our hearts ache and prayers are with all of you, now, and the days ahead during this most difficult time. All our love💔
Sharon Holmquist Mercado says
Jeanie, Nels and family, I’m so sorry for the loss of your son, Nels. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Mary Ann Bahnmiller says
Nels & family, I’m very sorry to hear about Nels Jr. I can only imagine the pain you must be feeling. Appreciate your transparency in sharing about Nels’ life. I will be praying for God’s peace that surpasses all understanding for you and your family.
Ed, Pam and Jeff Fallang says
Nels , Jeanie and family, We are saddened by your loss! Please know that God has a plan for all of us , no matter how long of short it may be. May he hold you in his arms and keep you all strong in these trying times.
Sandie & Jim Stiffler says
Nels and Jeanie,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for the both of you. May Nels Jr. rest in peace.
Sandie & Jim
Becca Kohl says
We had so much fun on the days that Nels, as a teenager, would come to the Photograph Archives and pursue research on his many interests. Historic homes, ghost towns, movie stars, cemeteries… We never knew what color his hair would be, or what goth or stylish fashion look he would be sporting. But he was so keenly interested and quietly amused. I’m so sad for your loss and hope that the good memories help comfort you.
Faylene Nelson says
Jeanie, I will always remember Nels. Our daughter Jen was his friend and thought she might have been one of his only friends in middle school. I am so sorry for your loss and hope time heals your heart. Faylene.
Kevin Malone says
Nels, Jeanie and family
So saddened to hear about Nels jr. Thanks for sharing his life’s story and may you find comfort in lasting memories. My deepest sympathy and good thoughts are with you.
Gale Owens says
Nels and family, It’s hard to find words to tell you how sorry I was to hear about Nels Jr. Please know my love and prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing his story. May he be at peace now.
Kelly Sheridan says
Nels and family, I am so deeply saddened by this news. Nels was a very special student to me and I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to teach him. He taught me so much about how to be a teacher and how to think outside the box. Every time I think of him, it brings a smile to my face. May you be comforted in the fact that he was loved and made a huge difference for all of those he came into contact with. Sending you hugs and lots of prayers. May he rest in peace!
addiction says
Gone too soon. Addiction knows no boundaries, it’s not an excuse for one’s behavior, it can be treated. Prayers for those who loved him (Lenna) and may he rest in peace.
John E. Andrew says
Nels and family, My most sincere condolences to you all in your loss. Nels Jr. was fortunate to be loved and supported by such a strong family. May he finally find peace . . .
Tim & Elaine Myles says
Nels, Jeanie, Family, & Friends.
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thought and prayers. With Our Sincere Sympathy. ❤
Randisue Davis says
Nels and Jeanie,
Our hearts are breaking for you and the family during this very sad time. We’ll be remembering you in our thoughts and prayers.
Wanda and Randisue
Colleen Teberg says
Nels and Jeanie,
Such a nice service. I’m thinking of you. I know our boys are together again, watching over us.
dawn says
I’m going through the obituaries and noticed this very lovely man’s obituary. Thank you for having the courage to talk about his story. It must be very difficult but it sounds like he lived a full life and experienced some wonderful things. Thank you.