Kim Leroy Nelson

Kim L. Nelson, 71, of Great Falls, entered eternal rest in the early hours of April 17, 2021. He died from a massive heart attack and is now at peace in the Lord’s presence. Kim was born January 16, 1950, the son of Leroy A. and Eileen J. Nelson. He was raised on the family farm and attended Power schools. He was very athletic and enjoyed playing baseball in Power and Legion ball in Fairfield. He covered third base with a deep glove and a strong throwing arm. Many fans were thrilled by his long-range hook shot playing basketball in Power and at Western Montana College in Dillon during the 1968-1969 season. He went on to graduate with a degree in education in 1973. While he was attending college, he managed the food service. He later transferred to Lewiston, Idaho to manage Saga Foods there. He then moved to Great Falls, and in 1977 began a 39-year career with Buttrey/Albertsons. He started as a stockman and then began checking, which he continued until his retirement in 2016. His happy demeanor and infectious laugh made him a popular checker with many customers. Kim loved to sing Happy Birthday to his fellow employees on the intercom and he was “Santa” to many children over the years. He married Gail Flesch in 1970, and they had two sons, Shaun and Shane. They later divorced. In 1981, he married Marsha McGavin Meade and started a new life with her and her three children, Troy, Kelly, and Mindy. One of Kim’s fondest memories was playing guitar and singing at the 3-D Supper Club. His favorite songs to play were “King of the Road,” Ole Roy, Ole Roy is that Your Horse,” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” The band Kim played with called themselves Benedict Arnold and the Traitors. A favorite past time of Kim’s was driving the back roads around Montana and checking out the crops and cattle. He was avid about reading the Bible and scriptures. He was passionate in his love of the Lord. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marsha; mother, Eileen Nelson of Fairfield; son Shane Nelson of Boise, ID; stepsons, Troy (Cindy) Meade of Stanwood, WA and Kelly (Katee) Meade of Kingston, WA; stepdaughter, Mindy (Lon) Vohland of Laramie, WY; brother, Mark (Sandra) Nelson of Power, MT; sister, Lori (Scott) Onishuk of Santa Barbara, CA; grandchildren; and nieces. Kim was preceded in death by his father, Leroy and son, Shaun. Kim was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all. He rests in peace. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at Faith Center, 4700 10th Ave S, in Great Falls. A reception will be announced at the service.