December 28, 1934 - July 29, 2014
NELSON, Earl Victor (Age 79) (12/28/34 - 07/29/14) Earl went home peacefully to be with the Lord on July 29, 2014. He was born on December 28, 1934 to Hjalmar and Ruth Nelson. A proud grandson of one of Hillyard's founding fathers, the ""Victor Belle"" Building his grandfather constructed on Market Street still remains. After graduating from Rogers in 1952, where he played baseball and wrestled, he went on to earn his degree in Architectual, Structural and Civil Engineering from WSU. After college, he worked with H. Halvorson Construction Company as a Project Manager. In 1970 he started Earl Nelson Corporation, a construction consulting firm. He successfully managed countless major construction projects, including a Minuteman Missile Site, Vandenburg AFB, Expo '74, Martin Stadium Expansion, and many others. He frequently testified as an expert witness on multi-million dollar construction projects. He actively participated in and supported numerous community and philanthropic activities, including the Spokane Opera House, Knife and Fork, Wampum, WSU Cougar Club, and the Spokane Symphony. Earl was a proud Norwegian. He traveled with his family to many places, including Scandinavia, Ireland, Europe, and throughout North America. He was a great dad, grandpa, and friend! He enjoyed architecture, museums, the Cougars, and learning about history and other cultures. He is survived by his siblings Dolores Nelson and Neil Nelson; children Tonya Nelson and Todd Nelson; grandchildren Connor, Christopher and Elle Nelson; and former wife, Norma Jean Nelson. He is also survived by his dear friend, Beverly Thamm, and her family. A public memorial service will be held at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 316 E. 24th, Spokane, on Friday, August 8 at 10:00 am. Remembrances may be sent to St. Mark's Lutheran Church.
