Gregory James Nelson

Gregory James Nelson passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2020, at his home in Rathdrum, Idaho. Greg was born Nov. 5, 1957, to Patricia (Thomson) Perry and Robert O. Nelson in Coeur d’Alene.

Greg grew up in Coeur d’Alene and went to St. Thomas grade school until it closed, and then to Coeur d’Alene High School. He moved to Kellogg, Idaho, and graduated from Kellogg High School. After graduation, Greg moved to Spokane, Wash., and worked at Spokane Foundry.

In 1981, Greg moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where he worked at several different jobs before joining Local 71 Union Hall. He worked out of the hall as a surveyor for the State of Alaska Department of Transportation. Greg worked all over the state and had many great memories of his work and life in Alaska.

After Greg retired, he moved back to Idaho and settled in his home in Rathdrum. Greg was an avid reader and had many western books and enjoyed them all, especially anything written by Louis L’Amour. He also enjoyed watching DVDs, and of course, was always waiting for that knock on the door from Publishers Clearing House. But it never came. Although Greg had a lot of health issues later in his life, he always was jovial and thoughtful to everyone.

Greg is survived by his parents Wallace and Patricia Perry; step-daughter, Laci Anderson; sister, Peggy M. (Tim) Turrell of Post Falls; and four nieces and nephews. Greg was preceded in death by his father, Robert O. Nelson; brother, Jeffrey Nelson; and sister, Kathleen Pollard.

Greg belonged to the Eagles Lodge in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Hayden, Idaho.

A memorial service for Greg will be held at a later date.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Greg’s online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign his guest book.