Lowell D. Nelson - Adel

Lowell David Nelson, 78, of Adel, passed away Thursday, November 28, 2013 at the Des Moines Mercy West Hospital. Funeral services will be 11 AM Monday, December 2, 2013 at McCalley Funeral Home in Adel, with burial at Oakdale Cemetery. Family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service. Lowell was born January 28, 1935 to Clarence and Frieda Nelson on the family farm in Sherburn, MN. Lowell had a strong conviction to serve his country through military service, but was released due to a medical deferment. Lowell spent several years as a farmer around the area of Sherburn, MN before he and his older brother, Wayne, took jobs with the Iowa Road Builders Company and moved to Des Moines. Lowell married Geraldine Gillespie in 1969. Together Lowell and Gerry shared a dream of owning a lake home, which became a reality when they moved to Diamondhead Lake near Dexter. The Gillespie family was able to spend countless seasons boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming and skating out at the lake house. Lowell's true passions in life were telling stories, playing cards, sharing a cold one, and above all, spending time with family and friends. Lowell was retired from Grimes Asphalt Company where he spent many years as a paver operator. He lost the love of his life in July 2010, and his brother, Wayne Nelson, this past year in 2013. He is survived by his two sisters, Karen Miller and Connie Garrison; his step sons, James (Susan) Gillespie of Vaughn, WA, Daniel Gillespie of Diamondhead Lake, Dexter, Robert (Betsie) Gillespie of Adel, and George (Peggy) Gillespie of Urbandale, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and three sons, Lee, Lane and Lon from his first marriage. Memorial contributions can be directed to his family. Online condolences may be left at this site. Service: 11:00 AM Monday, December 2, 2013 McCalley Funeral Home Adel, Iowa Visitation: Family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service. McCalley Funeral Home Adel, Iowa