Robert “Bubba” Nelson, longtime resident of Hinckley, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on October 31, 2026. He was 65 years old.

Born on February 18, 1961, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, Bubba moved to Cloverdale shortly after and spent his life there. He graduated from Hinckley Finlayson High School in 1979 and went on to build a life as a skilled heavy equipment operator, truck driver, and spent some time working at a tree farm.

In 2001, he found joy and companionship when he married Mary Ratajczak in St. Paul, Minnesota. Bubba was a passionate fisherman and hunter, known for his love of the outdoors. 

Every winter, you could find him on Lake Mille Lacs, living in his fish house, plowing the ice roads and fishing to his heart’s content.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Geraldine (Werner) Nelson. 

Bubba leaves behind his wonderful wife Mary and his daughter Sally, who resides in Colorado. He is also survived by his stepson Geoff in Minneapolis, his sister Deb Nordloh in Wisconsin, and a host of cherished cousins, aunts, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 4, 2026 at 11:00AM at Zion Lutheran Church in Cloverdale with Wendy Remer Johnson officiating. There will be a visitation from 10:30-11:00 prior to the service.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services, Tatting Methven Chapel, Hinckley, Minnesota. www.methvenfh@gmail.com