JAMES "JIM" GORDON NELSON

James Gordon Nelson, "Jim" age 75, of Duluth, left us for a more peaceful place, on Thursday, August 2, 2012.

Jim was born on February 10, 1937 to Gordon W. & Marguerite (Hobbins) Nelson.

He grew up in Duluth and graduated from Central High in 1955 then attended UMD, to play goalie for the Bulldogs. Jim worked with his father and brother Dale operating the Duluth Delivery Service for several years. Jim owned Lakehead Transportation until his retirement in 1996. He broadcasted UMD Bulldog Hockey on WDSM & WEBC from 1972-1981. He also was a player/coach for the Duluth Hornets Hockey Team for several years. Jim was the assistant hockey coach for Duluth Central from 1982-1985. Jim was one of the founders of the Duluth Junior Football League and coached the Kenwood/ Chester team for years. He also refereed high school and NIA college football.

Jim was very active in youth sports programs in Duluth. As a child he played hockey at Lower Chester. As an adult stayed active at the rink, and coached dozens teams. Jim bought a house across the street from the rink so his kids could spend their childhood playing at Lower Chester. He also coached many teams at Duluth Central Little League.

If Jim wasn't playing hockey, football or softball, he was either coaching, refereeing, umpiring or watching a game.

Jim's warm smile and a jolly sense of humor won him friends quickly and easily.

The twinkle in his blue eyes made you wonder what he was up too. He always kept a positive attitude and tried to make the most of every situation.

Jim has spent the past 7 years living at Edgewood Vista, where he got involved in many activities and made many new friends. Jim loved to fish, spend time outdoors and work on perfecting his suntan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son Jeff; and his brother, Dale.

Jim will be sadly missed by his children, Jay of Duluth, Jodi (Brock Pelzl) Nelson of Duluth, and Jon of Watford City, ND; and former wife, Joanne (Ken) Docteur of Duluth.

GATHERING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS: to celebrate Jim's life 4-7 p.m. Sunday, August 5, 2012 at Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 East Second St., Duluth. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.mm Monday, August 6, 2012 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. A private family burial will be at Park Hill Cemetery, Duluth. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home (218) 727-3555.

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