Earl M. Nelson, 93

Earl M. Nelson, 93, "went to join our Lord, and his parents and brother, Joe" on Saturday, April 11, 2009, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. He was born July 19, 1914, in Kalispell to Harry A. and Grace (Madden) Nelson.

Earl went to school in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead High School in 1933.

He worked for Western Union, using his motorcycle.

Earl served in the United States Army for 12 years, earning a Bronze Star and two Bronze Service Stars. He was honorably discharged in 1945.

Earl then went to work in California for Lockheed Aircraft and received many rewards for his work during the 21 years of service. One recognition was for finding an error while working on the Blackbird Project. He retired in 1976.

Earl is survived by his wife, Billie, of the family home; three stepchildren, Donald Smith of Oklahoma City, Sharon Huxstable of Guthrie, Okla., and Mary Ingalls of Missoula; four grandchildren, Kym of Guthrie, Scott Hagerty of Alaska, Robbie Olser of Victor, and Jamie of Livingston; three great-grandchildren, Tyler and J.T. Cornish of Guthrie, and Lily Olser of Victor; as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Earl was very loved and surely will be missed by all.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Earl's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Earl's guest book.