Bruce B Nelson

Bruce Barton Nelson

August 25th 1928 – March 13th 2026

Bruce Nelson, 97 ½ passed away peacefully surrounded by family in his home in Corona, CA where he resided for the last 52 years. Born to Henry & Lena Nelson in Wadena, MN, he grew up in the small town of Sebeka, MN with one older brother, Clair. His parents followed the two boys to the state of Washington after both had finished their time in the service.

His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic, emphasizing the importance of a steady job. He started a popcorn business outside a theater while in high school; worked for an undertaker, doing many tasks including driving the hearse; spent time at a dry milk factory, and a Ford dealership.

Bruce enlisted in the Army at the tail end of WWII at the age of 18. Basic training was in Fort Knox, KY, later to Pittsburg, CA, and eventually shipping off to Asaka, Japan in 1947, acting as a guard at the war crimes trials. He was very proud of his service to his country and was able to travel to Washington DC in 2022 with his grandson Patrick, as an invited guest of Honor Guard Southland.

After his return from the war, he attended Dunwoody Technical School in Minneapolis where he studied drafting, and estimating which later served him well in business.

He was first married in 1951 in North Dakota and had 5 children: Curt, who died shortly after birth, Teresa, Brian, Gale, and Amy. The family moved to Puyallup WA where he soon undertook the construction of their home. Working in the lumber and construction sales industry, he went on to work for a number of companies relocating his family, first to California, later to Idaho, and finally back to California.

In 1974 he married his true love Minnie, raising her two daughters Veronica and Sarah. They settled in Corona where they enjoyed many years building numerous friendships in their church and community. A daily morning ritual at the donut shop discussing politics or other matters was a favorite pastime. He and Minnie enjoyed extensive travels throughout the world, prompted from the special impression made on him as a child, visiting the World’s Fair in Washington, DC in 1939 with his parents and brother. At the age of 90, Bruce fulfilled a dream of visiting Iceland, and was able to do this with his son in 2018.

In 1982 he founded Space Design & Display, designing and building hundreds of pharmacies, bookstores, and other retail entities for the next ten years. His son joined him 2 years later and continues the company today.

A member of the local Kiwanis club for years, he took special pride in delivering and presenting plaques to primary age “Terrific Kids” at local schools; a program which promotes character development, self-esteem, and perseverance.

Dad came from a family of jokers, always enjoying kidding each other and he did the same with his family. Never shying from a teasing remark but always doing so with love. His sensitivity and emotional nature was always evident.

He is survived by his wife, Minnie; six children Teresa Nelson, Brian Nelson (Melanie), Gale Price (Rick), Amy Koorstad (Chris), Veronica McBride (Loren), and Sarah Jensen (Kyle); and his grandchildren: Shayna, Michael, Patrick, KC, Maddy, Chris, Makenzie, Conner, Carolyn, Heather, Elizabeth, Larissa, Tyler and Hailey; twelve great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

His greatest trait was his thankfulness. Always voicing his appreciation for even the smallest gesture shown to him. This was most apparent in his last months with his “Thank You’s” to Minnie, his family, and to his wonderful caregivers. His legacy will be that of family, friendship, and faith.

Honor Flight Southland

Attn: Donations

PO Box 80256

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

www.honorflightsouthland.org