Michael A. Nelson Town of Vinland, Wisconsin Michael A. Nelson, age 61, of the Town of Vinland, died Monday, April 23, 2012, at home with his loving family at his side. He was born March 13, 1951, in Oshkosh to the late James, Sr. and Marie (Payne) Nelson. On November 10, 1973, Mike married Ann Weber at Peace Lutheran Church in Oshkosh with Pastor Harold Kuester officiating. From 1970 to 1975 he was employed at Park View Health Center, from 1976 to 1978 with Arrowhead Conveyor, and from 1978 until 2007 Mike worked at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute until health issues forced him to retire. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Oshkosh, and the Twin City Bushwackers; enjoying mud drags and poker rallies in the 1980's. Mike served as a local union steward while employed at Winnebago Mental Health Institute. He enjoyed watching Packer games, maintaining his lawns, building computers, gardening, preparing vehicles for mud drags, fixing vehicles for friends and family, restoring the barn for his children's 4-H projects, and viewing God's nature. Mike's greatest joy was having his children and grandchildren around. Mike is survived by his cherished wife of 38 years and caretaker, Ann Nelson, of the Town of Vinland; two devoted children, son and daughter-in-law, Michael John and Heidi Nelson; daughter and son-in-law, Laurie and Brandon Cacek; grandchildren, Alyssa, Michael, and Julia Nelson; Tessa and Augustine Cacek; his mother-in-law, Audrey Weber; two brothers and one sister-in-law, John and Donna Nelson, Randy Nelson; two sisters and three brothers-in-law, Ruth and Robert James, Debra and William Niebuhr, Ron Rucks; special friends, Bill Brand and family, and John Becher; nieces and nephews; his German Shepherds, Reba and Abby; and feline friend, Sadie. Along with his parents, Mike was also preceded in death by brothers, James Jr., William, and Charles; sisters, Cathy and Kristi; his father-in-law, John Weber; and a brother-in-law, Robert Weber. In accordance with Mike's wishes a private celebration of his life was held on April 24, 2012. Pastor Karen Jewell officiated. Burial was in the Brooks Cemetery, Town of Vinland. Mike's family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to all who comforted them, especially Dr. Michael A. Duffy, his nurse Mary for their compassionate care and concern; the Aurora Hospice team, Amy, Karen, and Joan; and wonderful friends, Carol, Sue, Judy, Janet, Louise, Ingrid, Sally, and Bonnie who were a support system for the family during this journey. Mueller Funeral Home 904 E. Main St. Winneconne, WI 54986 (920) 582-4242 Please submit online condolences to www.muellerfuneralhomeinc.com