Walker Phenix Nelson

Walker Phenix Nelson died February 1, 2026, following a skiing accident in Minnesota. He was 25 years old. He died as he lived, doing what he loved. Walker was born on July 14, 2000. Everywhere he went, Walker was a light to those around him. With a playful joke, a story of his many travels or plans for his next trip, a ranking of his favorite hamburgers, or often, an insistence on selecting the music-always perfect for the moment-Walker made the days, nights, late nights, and even early mornings pass easily. He was comfortable in every room, he was quick to make friends and slow to let them go, he greeted everyone he loved with the biggest hug, and we are so proud of him and so lucky to have known him. Walker grew up in Minneapolis' Seward neighborhood. He loved his childhood home so much that he had our house number tattooed on his chest. Surrounded by albums, he acquired a love for music, taking after his father. He had an eye for fashion, taking after his mother. And food? He really enjoyed it. Many cherished memories were made driving to Marcy Open School and South High School, singing along to The Beatles, The Clash, MGMT, and Squeeze, among so many others. He would go on to express his love for music by DJing, first in basements amongst friends, then at his fraternity at the University of Oregon (go Ducks), and then at Skyway Theater, where he was the Marketing Director. Walker loved the outdoors, always stopping for a hike at a national park on his many road trips to Oregon and back. Walker is survived by his parents, Amy Phenix and Chad Nelson; his brother, Townesend Nelson; his grandparents, Su Phenix and Bill Seifert, Charles Phenix, and Chelaine and Glen Nelson; his uncle, Craig Nelson, and aunt, Mirza Nelson; along with cousins and extended family, and more friends than we can count. A celebration of Walker's life will be held on Sunday, February 15, at 4 p.m. at First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis. A reception will follow. Memorials preferred to the Minnesota Women's Foundation (wfmn.org/donate) Phenix Nelson Family Fund, where they will be used to place a memorial bench and tree at Boom Island Park and support causes and institutions that Walker cared about. More information at www.Washburn-McReavy.com or you may email celebratewalker@gmail.com.

Tributes

Walker Phenix Nelson

July 14, 2000 - February 1, 2026

Tributes

Walker Phenix Nelson

July 14, 2000 - February 1, 2026

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