Marcus, Iowa – Joseph Luverne Nelson, 63, of Marcus, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at home surrounded by his family after a brief, but courageous battle with cancer. There will be a graveside service 2:00 pm Monday June 17, 2019 at Marcus Amherst Cemetery with Pastor Don Meyer officiating. Family and friends will gather at the Earnest – Johnson Funeral Home in Marcus at 1:00 p.m. to assemble for Joe’s final motorcycle ride to the cemetery. Casual dress is requested. Earnest Johnson Funeral Home is assisting Joe's family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be directed through www.mauerjohnsonfh.com

Joe was born on October 25, 1955 in Le Mars IA, to LuVerne & Alice (Ralston) Nelson. He graduated from Marcus and married Pamela Hast on July 9, 1988 in Silver Sioux Park. He worked several jobs including truck driving for himself and plumbing, heating and air for Marcus Lumber but was a lifelong farmer. Joe was a devoted family man who dedicated his life to caring for others. He was an independent man who enjoyed cooking, motorcycles, collecting guns, target shooting and farming.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 31 years, Pam Nelson of Marcus, IA; his children: John & (Tedi) Nelson of Granville, IA, Angela & (Bart) Steines of Bennett, IA, Samantha Adams of Marcus, and Amber Adams of North Liberty; his mother: Alice Nelson of Tamaqua, PA; siblings: Linnea & (Al) Castillo of Dallas, TX, Karen (Vince) Putt of Tamaqua, PA, and Bruce & (Staci) Nelson of Omaha, and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his father and 2 infant grandsons: Tyler & Trevor Nelson.