Wayne Nielsen

Wayne Nielsen was born Sept. 15, 1939, to the late Ambrose and Vera and brother to the late John and James.
Wayne loved his family ferociously.  He carried the scars and broken body of a man who would do anything to provide for the ones he loved.
He treated every person he encountered the same, as purely as that statement can be boiled down.
In his lifetime he read through libraries of book and magazines, somehow retaining most of the information. He should have several doctorate titles after his name for the knowledge he carried, if he had cared about such things.
Nature and animals were his cathedral. If you had the privilege of spending time outdoors with him hunting for rocks or fossils, or simply putting scraps of food out the window for the crows, in his eyes you could see him savoring every second as he reveled in the unvarnished work of the Almighty.
He didn’t give a crap what anyone else thought. Period, end of sentence.
He believed time would stand still if he had the opportunity to create something for a child or teach them a skill. No matter how hard present time was trying to tug back at him with a “Wayne, it’s time to go!” Over the years he mentored countless numbers of children. Always willing to take the time to teach a skill or share a story. If you’ve had the privilege of learning from Wayne, take the time to decode what he passively taught you.
His love of auctions and rummage sales were his social life in his later years with his wife by his side.
He was quickly noticed by others for the unique hats he wore. Usually a derby. Stand down John Wayne, a true man is entering the building.
Hats off for a Celebration of Wayne Nielsen’s Life.
Wayne passed away May 29, 2022. He was 82.
Wayne was beloved husband of Nina; father of Richard, Alecia, Teresa, Michelle, Virginia and Dane; and grandfather to Kaitlyn, Elizabeth and Mariah; Chris, Victoria and Nathaniel; Ariel, Everett, Adelaide and Evelyn; and Erik and Holly.
Graveside services will be held at 4:30 p.m., Friday, June 24 at Custer (S.D.) Cemetery with Rev. Lloyd Lemke officiating.
Following the graveside services please join us for the Celebration of Wayne Nielsen’s Life at the French Creek Picnic Park on Gordon Street, Custe from 5:30-8:30 p.m.  There will be food, drink, chairs and tables. We ask that you bring your favorites stories to share.
There will be a memorial fund set up for Operation Black Hills Cabin.
Arrangements have been placed under the local direction of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer. Written condolences may be made at chamberlainmccolleys.com