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It’s with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Mel Nelson early on January 2nd, 2010. Melvin Arnie Nelson was born to Lars and Annie Nelson of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan on October 7th, 1930, as the 5th of their 12 children. He would leave the farm as a young man and find his future to the West. His chosen trade was as a carpenter, and he quickly became a journeyman. He married his wife Jean in his home province and together they worked their way into B.C., having 6 kids along the way. When Mel saw Salmon Arm, B.C. for the first time he knew he wanted to live there, and the family moved there in 1974. And Mel never left. His most notable professional undertaking may have been as the head foreman in the construction of the Centenoka Park Mall, although he built many homes and businesses around town. He met and married his wife Laura in Salmon Arm and Laura and her daughters became part of the family. His profession became his hobby and in his later days he was happy working in the shop, or just watching a baseball or hockey game.

Mel is survived by many of his brothers and sisters, his wives, and his sons, daughters and step-daughters, and the families of all. We will speak of him often and laugh as though he’s with us. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed.

 Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday January 9, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. at Bower’s Funeral Services located at 440 10th St. S.W. in Salmon Arm, B.C.



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