Glen N. Nelson, 98, passed away peacefully in Sioux Falls, SD on April 12, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 pm on May 17, 2026 at First Congregational Church, 300 S. Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD.

Glen Nels Nelson, the third of five children born to Peter and Anna Nelson, was born on December 2, 1927, on the family farm outside Vermillion, SD. He attended rural school, University High School, and graduated from Vermillion High School. After one semester at Augustana College, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving for two years in the Pacific aboard the USS Antietam.

After his service, Glen returned to University of South Dakota, where he played football, joined Lambda Chi Alpha, and earned both his degree and later his master's degree. For 33 years, he taught mathematics and coached football, basketball, wrestling, and track and field in Carthage, Centerville, Sioux Falls, and Elk Point. Even in recent years, he cherished monthly visits with former students and athletes whose lives he had influenced so deeply.

On August 17, 1954, Glen married, Chelaine Munger, in Carthage, SD. Together they built a great life centered on their children, Craig, Mirza Ann, and Chad. They shared 72 years of marriage and opened their home and hearts as foster parents to 10 children.

Glen was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who never missed a game, concert, or milestone for his children and grandchildren. He lit up every room with his quick wit and unforgettable one-liners, and his joyful presence made everyone feel special.

A lifelong athlete, Glen was named to the All-Decade Football Team at the University of South Dakota and received the Dan Lennon Track and Field Award. He remained an avid runner and golfer into his 80s and 90s, proudly scoring a hole-in-one at 86 and competing in the South Dakota Senior Games for many years. He even celebrated his 90th birthday in Las Vegas, Nevada, where his playful side—and weakness for a slot machine—fit him perfectly.

Grateful for sharing his life are his wife of 72 years, Chelaine; his children, Craig of Sioux Falls, Mirza Ann of San Diego, CA, and Chad (Amy) of Minneapolis, MN; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Carrie Munger of Howard, South Dakota and Mary Prindle of Columbus, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Harold; his sister, Ruth Alne; and his grandson, Walker Nelson.

Glen and Chelaine were active members of First Congregational Church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where Glen especially valued the men's group and its fellowship.

Glen lived a life filled with joy, love, humor, and purpose. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the students he mentored, and the countless lives he brightened with his kindness and laughter.