Ardell Larrine Nelsestuen

Ardell Nelsestuen, age 83 of Minnesota City, died on June 22, 2025. He was born on February 28, 1942, to Norman and Emma Nelsestuen. He married Trudy Duellman on September 4, 1965 and they had three children together.

Ardell served valiantly in the Vietnam War with the Big Red One, 28th Infantry, where he was wounded in action. 

Ardell began his working career with various jobs before taking a position at a concrete pouring business. With determination and hard work, he eventually purchased the business, and ran it for nearly 40 years. 

Upon retiring at the age of 69, Ardell shifted gears and embraced the joy of woodworking. He channeled his creativity into building birdhouses. Ardell found immense pleasure in taking care of his lawn, and he could often be seen riding his beloved John Deere tractor. 

Ardell was a loving grandfather and took on the role of the "Grandpa Taxi" during the summers, eagerly picking up his grandchildren to spend quality time with them and their grandma. 

Ardell is survived by his children, Paul (Theresa) Nelsestuen, Jill (Travis) Buxengard, and Katie (Leif) Pettersen; his grandchildren, Erica (Steven), Nicole (Jon), Nick (Kate), Jon (Tia), Kendra (Brandon), Morgan, Noah (Emmy), Grant, and Paige; great-grandchildren, Sarah, Leo, Waylon, Wyatt, Nixon, Noah, and Gabe; and siblings, Arlene Fenske and Rich (Carol) Nelsestuen.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Trudy; parents; brother, LaVern (Karen) Nelsestuen; and brother-in-law, Alfred Fenske.

A Memorial Service for Ardell will be held at 5pm on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at the Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview, MN. A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 3-5 pm on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at the Funeral Home.

Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview, is assisting the family.