This memorial plaque has been mounted in a small barbecue/concession pavilion at Lee Gehring Memorial Field, the major ball park in Libby. The pavilion is one of several behind the first base line.
Pete was obviously a well liked and well known individual in Libby, having grown up in the town and excelling at many sports when young. He gave many hours of his time to the community and to friends and neighbours throughout his life.
Pete Nelson passed away on March 16, 2010 at the age of 74. His obituary is reprinted below.
Peter O. Nelson
March 21, 2010 12:00 am
LIBBY — On March 16, 2010, Peter O. Nelson, passed away to be with our Lord Jesus Christ. Pete was 74 years old at the time of his passing.
Pete was born Feb. 12, 1936, in Libby, Mont., to Henry and Louise Peters Nelson, the fourth sibling of six in his family.
Pete grew up in Libby, going to grade school, Junior High and graduating from Libby High School in 1956. Pete “Animal” Nelson was a stellar athlete playing Football, Basketball, Track and Baseball during his years growing up. Pete held county track records for many years. Pete earned an athletic scholarship to play football at Eastern Washington University and played for two years before enlisting in the United States Army. Pete was in the Army for two years starting in 1958. He attended basic training at Fort Hood then transferred to Fort Sam Houston before deploying to Germany. Pete finished his enlistment in Germany before returning to Libby.
Pete learned how to work hard in his early years with his brother Buck being his mentor as they delivered milk and ice cream throughout the Libby area. Pete started work for J. Neils Lumber Co. in 1960 and continued his employment through St. Regis Lumber Co, Champion International and finishing with Stimson Lumber Co. in 2000 when he retired. Pete worked very hard the 40 years he was employed in Libby. Pete enjoyed the camaraderie of his fellow workers each day at work. In Pete’s later work years he enjoyed organizing events for co-workers such as crab feeds, Christmas parties and get togethers.
Pete was also very active as a Husband, Dad and Grandfather! He attended as many events as he possibly could while his children were growing up, and most recently enjoyed watching his grandchildren aspire in many different sports and events. He enjoyed traveling with his family and many wonderful times were cherished on these outings. Camping, fishing, trips to Fairmont Hot Springs, the Oregon Coast, Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Crystal Lake and one of his most favorite places to go, Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Pete also cherished his roots….family and friends! He was very close to both sides of his family, the Nelson’s and the Heyne’s. Pete was available to assist either side of the family when necessary and did so without complaint. Pete was also available to help any and all friends when called upon. Pete was mostly asked because he was big enough and strong enough to get the project done. Pete also enjoyed all family holiday outings whatever the occasion. He enjoyed the “family” time and hearing what others had to say. Pete also had a wonderful time helping organize all of his class reunions as well as participating in them. He really enjoyed seeing his fellow classmates from so many years ago.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents; his five siblings – Roseanna Braaten, Henry “Buck” Nelson, Beverly Ramsey, Arthur “Mick” Nelson and Donn Nelson.
Pete is survived by his wife Sandy Heyne Nelson; son JD Nelson and wife Tammie of Billings; daughter Kasey Reichel and husband Bill of Libby; grandchildren William and Rhiannon Reichel; Amanda and Heidi Nelson; mother-in-law Marianne Heyne; brother-in-law Bud Heyne and wife Nancy; sister-in-law Joan Robbins and husband Norm; sister-in-law Corliss Nelson; brother-in-law Jim Schneider; and numerous nieces and nephews.
From the Billings Gazette