Warren Nelson

Warren Nelson

January 24, 1938 - September 13, 2026

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Obituary

MADISON - It is with sadness that the family of Warren H. Nelson announces his death on September 13, 2026. Warren died peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and children. He was 88 years old. He will be remembered as a beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

 

Warren was born in Luck, Wisconsin on January 24, 1938, to Karen and Lars Nelson. He and his wife of 62 years, Wanda, were married on September 11, 1964, in Racine, Wisconsin.

 

Warren graduated from Centuria High School in 1956. He and his best friend, Larry Anderson joined the United States Air Force the day after graduation. After he served four years in the Air Force he came to Madison to attend the University of Wisconsin.

 

He was Chief Deputy Clerk for the United States District Court and retired after working at the court for almost 40 years.

 

Warren was an avid gardener and planted beautiful flower gardens. He also loved to read, ride his bike on all the trails Madison had to offer, and travel with his wife and family.

 

All his children are eternally grateful for all the time he spent being their soccer coach, their softball coach, a timer at swim meets, Cub Scout Troop Master, confirmation teacher and just all-around involved dad. His grandchildren are eternally grateful for all the times he showed up to watch their athletic events. He rarely missed a game or a meet even if it meant travelling from Monona to a westside pool or field on his bike.

 

Warren is survived by his wife, Wanda; his son, Andrew, and his wife, Loree; his son, Mark, and his daughter, Anne-Marie, and her husband, Jason; sister, Karen Nelson; his grandchildren, Madeleine and Tyler, Beata and Michael, Samantha and Trevor, Cali, Cole, Raine, Brookelynn and Keegan, Clint, Tori, Sarah and Troy and Erika and Cody; and 11 great-grandchildren.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Betty Ann Anderson; his brother, Larry Nelson; his brother-in-law and best friend, Larry Anderson; and his beloved niece, Liz Nelson.

 

Memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. His family sends a special thank you to Warren's Agrace team and Just Checking In for their special care.

 

In honor of Warren’s wishes, there will be no funeral or formal services. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

 

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

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AN
A Memorial Tree was planted for Warren H. Nelson
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
GH
Gunderson Funeral Home
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Shared a photo.
LJ
Lori Jensen
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So many fond memories of Warren, beginning with my attendance in his confirmation classes at St. John’s Lutheran Church as a youth and, later in life, the privilege of working with him the majority of my 30 years with the Clerk’s Office. Always ready to listen, guide and lead by example, the court family benefited greatly from his leadership. My memories after retirement include many good times Don and I spent with Warren and Wanda, the love of his life. We will treasure them always. Our condolences, hugs and love to Wanda and the family. — Lori and Don Jensen
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Scott Becky and Emily Skavlen
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With loving memories of "Warren H. Nelson", Thank you for all of the wonderful memories over the years.
MH
Melissa Hardin
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While I only worked with Warren for his last 6 months at the courthouse, Bob & I greatly enjoyed getting together for dinner with Wanda & Warren for good food and interesting conversation over many years. Sending our prayers & hugs to Wanda & family. Melissa Hardin & Bob Booth
KK
Kristin Keir
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What a lovely man and beautiful family. I was privileged to meet you all. I hope that Warren made us stop in Toronto on his way… If you know what I mean. 😊 I am sending my best wishes to you, Wanda, and all of you as you walk forward with your grief and your love.

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