05/28/2026
We mourn former legislator Gary J. Nelson, who passed away this week.
District 22
Senate 1977-2001
"As the Majority Leader, Senator Nelson led with a firm hand but was always open to sharing humor or a fun story! I was the Minority Leader and appreciated his fairness. Senator Nelson served our state with distinction." - Senator Tim Mathern
"Senator Gary Nelson was the Majority Leader when I was first elected to the Senate. I requested assignment to the Industry, Business and Labor Committee, but Gary said, 'You will serve on Human Services,' and I have been there ever since. Senator Nelson was an excellent leader, encouraging new members to listen, ask questions, and learn from the people who appeared at hearings. He wanted to know what was being discussed in committees but did not tell members what to do. It was our job to find the right combination of ideas to send out effective bills which would be accepted by legislators and the Governor. Delegation of that authority made us all aware of our responsibilities as Senators. He cared about us personally and professionally, and he will be missed by the many friends and colleagues he had in the Capitol and around ND." - Senator Judy Lee
"I will always cherish the time I spent alongside my friend Senator Nelson. Gary led with strength, thoughtful conviction, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right for the people of North Dakota. As I found my footing in the State Senate, Gary's guidance shaped not only my work, but my understanding of leadership itself--steady, principled, and rooted in respect. Beyond the Senate chambers, Gary was a true friend. During one of the most difficult chapters of my life, as I navigated the loss of my wife, he stood beside me with compassion and grace. His words, his presence, and his willingness to simply listen meant more than he ever knew. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the work he influenced, and the friendships he built. North Dakota is a better State because of Senator Nelson's service." - Former Senator Tony Grindberg
"Gary was a deeply principled leader who was always encouraged and was interested in points of view beyond his own. As a leader of leaders, Gary worked to bring out the best in his fellow Senators, and he respected that each Senator represented a district with unique constituency needs. No one spent more time learning issues than Sen. Nelson. He was very broad and deep in his knowledge of a spectrum of issues and turned that knowledge into incredibly persuasive floor speeches." - Former Senator Tim Flakoll
"Gary Nelson was a leader of leaders. He involved those he worked with and treated them with respect. Gary was a person who was not afraid to make the tough decisions and several legislative policies instituted during his time as leader are currently serving the people of North Dakota and will into the future. A man of common sense!" - Former Senator Rich Wardner
“I've lost a best friend and mentor. We worked together as leaders of our respective bodies to bring North Dakota forward. Gary was always the steading influence that helped make it possible. All of North Dakota should be thankful he was willing to share his talents and time. The wonderful times I shared with him will never be forgotten. My heartaches for his wife Linda and family.” - Former Representative John Dorso
Funeral information can be found at https://www.westfuneralhome.com/obituary/Gary-Nelson-1