Stephen Edwin Nelson

Nelson, Stephen E. Age 78, of Edina, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2019 surrounded by his family for whom he had so much love and who will miss him terribly. They include Barbara, his wife of 56 years; children Molly (Peter) Opp, and Michael; and his grandchildren Andy, Elizabeth and Charlotte, whom he treasured beyond measure. He is also survived by sister-in-law Marguerite Nelson; brother-in-law Jim Bina (Karen Madson); many other relatives and more friends than can be counted. He was preceded in death by parents Alfred R. and Margaret (Morgan) Nelson; his brother Douglas; and sister-in-law Kathy Bina. Steve was born in Chicago on February 14, 1941 Valentine's Day and was blessed with a temperament to match. Words used to describe him are kind, patient, generous, fun to be with, unpretentious, and someone who approached life with a positive outlook. He graduated from Edina High School where he excelled in basketball and football and where he made friendships that continued throughout his life. He received a degree in political science from the University of Minnesota and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Steve's entire career was in the financial services industry, beginning at Harris Upham & Co., then Smith Barney, and culminating at Merrill Lynch where he opened and managed their Edina office. Steve was forward thinking and an early adopter of new technology. He was with Merrill Lynch for over 30 years as a financial adviser and Senior Vice President. After his retirement, Steve and Barb were able to enjoy more time at their home in the Tonto Verde community of Rio Verde, AZ, where he was a member of the Tonto Verde Golf Club. It didn't take one long to discover Steve's passion for his country. His shelves were filled with history books, and there were trips with his family to Gettysburg, Williamsburg and Mount Vernon. When the children were grown, he and Barb visited presidential libraries and enjoyed trips to Europe. His children definitely caught his enthusiasm for travel and continue to explore the world with their loved ones. There were many travel highlights but perhaps the best was celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in Maui with the family. Among his other interests, Steve loved fishing trips with friends to Canada, rooting for the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and playing golf. He was a member at Edina Country Club for 46 years, where he was known as "Wonder." A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Steve's life will be at 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 4th, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. at The Basilica of St. Mary, Hennepin Avenue at 17th St., Minneapolis. Private Interment at Lakewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer's Association of MN/ND, The Basilica of St. Mary Landmark Foundation, Evans Scholars Foundation, or donor's choice. Washburn-Mcreavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

Stephen Edwin Nelson

February 14, 1941 - December 21, 2019

Tributes

Stephen Edwin Nelson

February 14, 1941 - December 21, 2019

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