James Warren Nelson, 81, of Tofte, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2018 in Duluth.
He was born March 31, 1937 in Two Harbors to Edward and Dorothy Nelson. He was raised in Lutsen and graduated from Cook County High School in 1955.
After proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army he returned to the North Shore to open Jim’s Barber Shop in Grand Marais and Lester River Barber Shop in Duluth. His passion for flying then landed him in a career he loved: flying private and corporate jets. His experiences of piloting musicians and movie stars were central to the many stories he was famous for telling. His favorite to share, though, was the time he flew his hero, General Chuck Yeager.
One of Jim’s happiest moments was in 1963 when he purchased the land to build his cabin on Kemo Lake, which he did with his father and siblings. Family and friends will forever cherish the memories of fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, boating, laughter and love shared at his beloved Kemo, and many more will continue to be made as the traditions are carried on today by his son, Blake.
He loved company and the B.S., but mostly the B.S.!
Jim is preceded in death by parents Edward and Dorothy (Nelson) and brothers Jerry, Gene and Lyle.
He is lovingly survived by sister Nancy, brothers Glen and Ken, sons Blake of Duluth and Stein Eric of Sandnes, Norway, Blake’s mother Lane (Wilson) Nelson, grandchildren Addison, Vetle and Olliver, and many cherished nieces, nephews and friends. Jim left the world as he lived in it – on his own terms.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Disabled American Veterans, DAV.org.
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