Gary D. Nelson, 82, passed away January 23, 2026 surrounded by family. He was born May 7, 1943 to Analee and Delmar Robert Nelson in Pekin, Illinois.

Gary is survived by his son, Mark and wife, Carol; cherished family Steve Karman and wife Diana; grandchildren, Miles and Lauren Hilton, and Joseph Karman; mom, Analee Nelson; sister, Kim Archuleta; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends and loved ones.

Gary was a resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico for 74 years and just recently moved to Montana to be closer to his mom and family.

Gary enlisted in the Marines in 1961 as well as the Air Force in 1965. Gary served in Vietnam from 1967-1968.

Gary worked at Barnhill & Bolt for nearly 50 years.

Gary was dedicated to his family, his son, Mark and his beloved best friend for 45 years, Diane Jones.

Gary was dearly loved by family and friends and will be greatly missed.

A Memorial Service for Gary will be held at 11:00am on Monday, February 9th at FRENCH - Wyoming Chapel, followed at 1:00pm at Gate of Heaven Cemetery where military honors will be bestowed.