Wayne Nielsen passed on May 29, 2022.

Born on September 15, 1939, to the late Ambrose and Vera and brother to the late John and James.  Beloved husband of Nina, Father of Richard, Alecia, Teresa, Michelle, Virginia and Dane.  Grandfather to Kaitlyn, Elizabeth and Mariah, Chris, Victoria and Nathaniel, Ariel, Everett, Adelaide and Evelyn, Erik and Holly.

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.

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.

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.

Stand down John Wayne, a true man is entering the building.

Hats Off for a Celebration of Wayne Nielsen's Life.

Graveside services will be held at 4:30 p.m., Friday, June 24, 2022, at Custer Cemetery in Custer, SD with Reverend 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, Custer, SD from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.  There will be food and drink, and 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, SD. Written condolences may be made at www.chamberlainmccolleys.com.