John E. “Jack” Nelson, 69, of Franklin died Friday, September 12, 2008 at the Redwood Area Hospital. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 from St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Franklin with visitation at the church for one hour prior to time of service. Burial will be private. Nelson-Martin Funeral Service of Redwood Falls is handling the arrangements.

John Edward “Jack” Nelson, the son of John and Florence (Allison) Nelson, was born March 30, 1939 at the Allison farm home in Eden Township, Brown County, Minnesota. In 1955, Jack was confirmed into his Christian faith by Pastor Russert at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Franklin where he was a member. He grew up in the Franklin area, graduating from Franklin High School in 1959. He served in the National Guard from 1959 to 1961. Jack worked for many years as a brick layer for Demming Construction. For a time he was married and the couple lived in Fairfax. Jack enjoyed target shooting with muskets (black powder) and was a real history buff, watching the history channel on TV as well as old movies.

Survivors include his uncles Edward Allison of Rosemount and James Allison of Franklin; aunts Marion Nelson and Elaine Nelson both of Franklin; cousins; and life long friend Glenn Lund of Franklin as well as many other friends.