Millard Artel Nelson was born on June 10, 1915 in Thief River Falls the son of John E. and Thora (Hofto) Nelson. He grew up and attended school in Thief River Falls. He liked to share that his house number remained the same all his life " born at 903 N. Knight Ave and lived at 903 N. Arnold Ave.

He was united in marriage to Helga O. Groven on July 23, 1938 in Oklee, Minnesota. Millard worked for Carl Wennberg Welding as a young man. He taught a General Metalwork class in a National Defense Training program in 1941 " 1942. He started working for the Soo Line Railroad as a clerk November 3, 1942 and retired August 7, 1975 after 33 years.

Millard was a member of the Abundant Life Lutheran Church, Odd Fellows, United Commercial Travelers, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Soo Line Veterans and Soo Line Historical Society. As a member of the Odd Fellows Young Pine Lodge in Thief River Falls since 1939, he held all offices in the branches of the local order, serving as secretary for many years. He has also served as secretary for the UCT, Pennington County Historical Society, and the Union Lake Sarah Association.

He was especially happy spending time with his family and friends at their cottage at Union Lake.

Millard is survived by his wife Helga of Thief River Falls; sons Stuart (Karen) of Anoka, MN, Bruce (Kay) of Thief River Falls, Gary (Lynnea) of Clear Lake, MN, Jack (Jean) of Thief River Falls; daughter Jill (Joseph) Wetzstein of Dickinson, ND; sister Penny (Trig) Johnson of Tucson, AZ; 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Truman and Herald and sister Rena.