Leonard D. Nelson

SIOUX CITY -- Leonard D. Nelson, 58, of Sioux City passed away Saturday, Dec. 26, 2009, at his residence.

Abiding by family wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial service of remembrances will be noon Thursday at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.

Leonard was born on March 13, 1951, in Glenwood, Minn., to Howard L. and Alice M. (Colberly) Nelson. He graduated from Villard High School with the class of 1969, before his enlistment with the U.S. Air Force in December. Leonard received his honorable discharge in July 1973, after achieving the rank of sergeant. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. He returned to work at Northern Pacific Railroad, where he had worked prior to his enlistment, having received seniority due to his military service.

He married Lucille Cardwell on May 29, 1976, in Sioux City. Leonard continued his career with the railroad working for Burlington-Northern Santa-Fe following the merger, and was scheduled to retire in 2011 before his untimely death.

Leonard enjoyed watching football, especially the Minnesota Vikings. He liked playing video games on the computer, playing cards, traveling and playing with his pets, but found his greatest reward by spending time with family. Leonard was a man who loved to laugh, especially at the Blue Collar Comedy crew including Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, Larry the Cable Guy and Ron White. He also enjoyed the comedy of Mac Davis and Jeff Dunham.

Leonard is survived by his wife, Lucille of Sioux City; daughter, Jackie Schrunk and her husband, Ben of Story City and their son, Timothy; stepson, Brandon Webb and his wife, Janice of West Point, Neb.; and brothers, Marlo Nelson and his wife, Delores of Avon, Minn., and Alan Nelson and his wife, Judy of St. Cloud, Minn.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Constance Robideaux; and stepson, Travis Webb.