Jeffery Gordon Nelson, 72
Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 2 months, 2 weeks AGO
Jeffery Gordon Nelson, 72, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. Jeff was born on Oct. 31, 1953, in Greeley, Colorado, to John and Patricia Nelson. Jeff grew up on various farms in Colorado, and it was during these years that he learned the value of hard work. He attended schools in Johnstown, Colorado and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1971. On Aug. 27, 1971, he married his high school sweetheart, Christy Hess. They had two daughters, Brigette and Brooklin, and a son, Brandon.
Jeff worked at two lumber yards in Colorado before moving with his family to Whitefish in 1979. He worked several different jobs before taking a position at Western Building Center, where he later worked his way up to the manager position.
After retirement, Jeff enjoyed working in the yard, camping, working on his cars in his shop and traveling. One of his favorite things to do was to follow his grandchildren in their sports and activities.
Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Christy; his children, Brigette Torgerson and husband Kim Torgerson, Brooklin Conklin and husband Jon Conklin, and Brandon Nelson and wife Kacie Nelson; and 10 grandchildren, Dylan Torgerson and wife Veronica Torgerson, Kaitlin Smith and husband Josh Smith, Makynzie Jensen and husband Wyatt Jensen, Justin Conklin, Logan Conklin, Ryan Conklin and Landon Conklin. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Huck Torgerson and Henry Jensen; his sister, Judy Pralle and husband Dale Pralle; and his father-in-law, Randall Hess.
Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jean Esser; his brother, John Nelson; his brother-in-law, Kerry Hess; and his mother-in-law, Patricia Hess.
Jeff will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He was known for his kind heart and big smile. He will live on through the "old-fashioned" lessons he taught his children and grandchildren, the loving way he teased his wife, the love he shared with family and friends, and the many wonderful memories made together.
A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. To send online condolences, please visit Jeff's tribute page at columbiamortuary.com.