It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jim Nelson, late of Battleford, SK, announce that he passed away at Battleford District Care Centre on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the age of 74 years.

Left to cherish Jim’s memory is his loving wife, Myrna Nelson; siblings: Sandy McGrath (Jim), Karl Nelson (Sandy), Jo-Ann Ganzert (Les), Doug Nelson (Susan), Linda Nelson and Terry Nelson; sister-in-law, Lana Danylyshen (Larry); brother-in-law, Lynn Getz (Alvena); Jim’s puppy supervisors: Shelby, Timmy, Bear and Cleo; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Jim is predeceased by his parents, Eunice and Walter Nelson.

James Hilmer Nelson (Jim) was born in Notre Dame Hospital in North Battleford on June 24, 1950. Jim first lived on the family farm in the Brada district in the house his grandfather built. Jim started school at Brada, then moved to North Battleford in November of 1956, where his education continued at Alexander School, and later North Battleford Collegiate Institute.

Jim was a member of the North Battleford City Kinsman Band for many years; the highlight of this membership for him was winning a personal gold medal for his French horn talents at Moose Jaw’s International Band Festival, and being a part of the groups that won medals in fancy drill and stage band competitions. Jim started curling in the early 1960s, with the Denholm 4-H Club, and participated in school curling for many years. He also curled with his dad for several years.

Following school, Jim played fastball in the Commercial League in North Battleford while working in North Battleford. He played fastball for Denholm for several years and later for the Whitkow team. In the late seventies, Jim started coaching hockey in Battleford and eventually returned to playing hockey again with local teams, including the Wilkie Old Timers.

Jim began his own farming in 1971 on rented land, as well helping his father with his farm. Jim moved back to the family homestead, and built his own house. Jim was present for most local community events in the Brada area, including offering his help at the nearby auction events.

In 1993, Jim met Myrna Getz at the North Battleford Fair Parade. Myrna and Jim were married at St. George’s Anglican Church in Battleford on July 9th, 1994. They shared a love of dogs, gardening, and fitness. They also enjoyed camping, especially at Cold Lake where they could take their tiny dogs walking. Their journey together was full of love, laughter, and resilience.

A celebration with family and friends will be held Saturday, April 19 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 70, North Battleford, SK at 1:00 p.m.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Battleford District Care Centre for the continuing care provided to Jim during his final years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Battlefords Healthcare Foundation, 1092 107th St., North Battleford, SK S9A 1Z1.

Condolences for the family can be made at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Alyssa Kozinski Apprentice Funeral Director

• Date : 2025-03-01
• Location : North Battleford, SK