Rande Lee Nelson

Rande Lee Nelson, beloved husband, father, son, and grandfather, passed away on January 15, 2024, at the age of 64 at his home in Albert Lea, MN. With heavy hearts, we reflect on the life of a man whose love, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community touched the lives of many.

Born on September 5, 1959 to Melvin and Darlene (Hassing) Nelson, in Albert Lea, MN, Rande was raised in the Clarks Grove area. He attended Clarks Grove school and later graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1977. Even during his high school years, Rande displayed his passion for automobiles, taking automotive classes and working at Penney's in the automotive department. After graduating, he eagerly entered the workforce, working at the COOP in New Richland and Clarks Grove and also as a maintenance supervisor at Bridon. Eventually, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit and became the proud owner of his own Car Sales shop and Construction business. Rande's true passion lay in construction, and he would often be seen donning his signature brown jersey gloves and gathering drill bits in his pockets. 

On May 10, 1980, Rande married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Jamie Jepson. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three wonderful children, Tina, Rachel, and Marc. Family was always Rande's top priority, and he went above and beyond to ensure their happiness and well-being. His selflessness was unmatched, always ready and willing to lend a helping hand, without even needing to be asked. Whether it was fixing cars, providing his carpentry expertise, or simply being there for his loved ones, Rande was a pillar of support and strength.

Rande's zest for life was evident in his constant busyness. He was a man of simple pleasures, always finding fulfillment in hard work and mastering challenges.  While others may have sought relaxation on fishing trips or quiet moments, Rande found solace in staying active. Rande cherished annual family trips to Arizona to visit relatives. He meticulously planned each stop along the way to ensure their arrival was perfectly timed, making the journey as memorable as the destination.  He also had a fondness for visiting various meat markets and treating his family and friends to delicious snacks along with hunting for bargains and striking deals.

One of Rande's proudest roles was that of a doting grandfather. He gladly embraced this new chapter in life and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren whether it was whipping up banana muffins, helping them create items in the garage, sharing his coin collection,  or asking them to help at a job site; every moment was a treasure.  He also found companionship in his pet cockatiel, JR; who would often be found sitting with him in his office or following him around the house.

As we reflect on Rande's life, let us remember the legacy he leaves behind. He taught us the importance of hard work, unwavering dedication to family, and the beauty of staying humble and content in simplicity.

Rande will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Jamie; children, Tina (Dan) Schmidt, Rachel (Kyle) Ladlie, and Marc (Emily) Nelson; grandchildren, Gabby (Weston Dahl), Tayler, Brendan, Anika, Axel, and Adalynn “Peanut”; mother, Darlene Nelson; sisters, Julie (Brad) Habana, Pat (Gary Davies) Nelson, and Jolene (Steve) Saleen; parents-in-law, Bunny and Ray Jepson; brothers-in-law, Steve Jepson and Dave (Tamra) Jepson; along with many nieces and nephews.

Rande was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Nelson, and sister, Kimberly Nelson.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 PM on Monday, January 22 at First Baptist Church in Clarks Grove, MN; Pastor Jamie Cameron will officiate.  Rande's family will greet guests at a visitation on Sunday, January 21, 2024 from 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Clarks Grove, MN and one hour prior to the service.  Interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Rande's family.