Darrel Nilson, 51, died on Thursday, April 27, 2006 at Northwest Medical Center in Thief River Falls, MN after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.

Darrel Craig Nilson was born on March 20, 1955 in Thief River Falls, MN, the son of Philmore and Borghild (Aune) Nilson. He was baptized at United Lutheran Church in Gatzke, MN on May 29, 1955 and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran in Thief River Falls, MN. He attended school in Thief River Falls at Northrop Elementary School, Franklin Middle School, and in 1973 he graduated from Lincoln High School. He went on to attend the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, MN where he studied Architectural Engineering. He also went to truck driving school in Rosemont, MN. Darrel started driving professionally for E.W. Wylie then later became an owner operator with Northstar Transport which eventually became Transport America. Darrel was the last of only five drivers to ever receive the million mile safety award from Northstar Transport. He was very proud of this accomplishment. Lately, he was working for R & Q trucking out of Roseau. In 1983 & 1984 he worked for the CP Rail. A number of years in the mid 1980s Darrel spent the winter commercial fishing in Florida.

Darrel was known for his great sense of humor. He was one of the most patient and tactful people, who had a way with words. He enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR, and going to Brainerd for the races. He was a social person who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed Monty Python and British humor. Watching the history channel was a favorite pastime.

Darrel was a member of Abundant Life Lutheran Church and a former member of the Eagles Club in Thief River Falls, MN.

Darrel is survived by his special friend and companion, Vicky Moman, Thief River Falls, MN; his mother, Borghild Nilson, Thief River Falls, MN; one brother, Byron (Lynn Forsberg) Nilson, Thief River Falls, MN; one sister, Sylvia (Corey) Rude, Greenbush, MN; nephews: Erik Nilson, Forada, MN, Aaron Nilson, Forada, MN, and Alexander Rude, Greenbush, MN; one niece, Dia Rude of Greenbush, MN, and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Philmore Nilson, his grandparents, and several aunts, uncles, and two cousins.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials dedicated to the American Cancer Society.