Randy Douglas Nelson 73, of Maskell, NE died on Thursday, July 30, on his farm in rural Maskell. Randy died doing what he loved, taking care of his farm. He was a hard worker but never considered it work because he had a passion for working the land and dirt, raising livestock, and clearing trees. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church of Maskell with Reverend Chad Beckius officiating. Interment will follow at Maskell City Cemetery. Refreshment and fellowship will follow graveside services at the Faith Lutheran Fellowship Hall in Maskell. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials be offered to the family for designation to be made at a later date. Visitation, with the family present, will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 4th at the church in Maskell, Nebraska. Mohr Funeral Home of Ponca, Nebraska is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Randy was born on November 8, 1952, in Sioux City IA, the son of Ronald and Mavis (Brockman) Nelson. He grew up on a farm north of Maskell, NE where he attended school in Maskell, and Obert before graduating from Newcastle in 1971. Shortly after high school Randy began working for the Burlington Northern Railroad. In the early 1980's he began farming and purchased the farm he grew up on. He later retired from the railroad and began farming full-time. Randy farmed alongside his dad and brother where they enjoyed working together for many years. In his later years Randy loved working side by side with his son Ronald, farming, driving truck and operating heavy machinery. Randy has worked with or for many people throughout his life, he enjoyed and appreciated everyone that has been a part of his life.

Randy loved farming and many outdoor activities. He had a passion for riding horses. Many nights were spent with friends and family roping and riding at his arena. He also hosted a large trail ride and hog roast for many years. Randy was a long-time member of the Day's of 56 Ponca Rodeo Association. Randy was always quick to lend a helping hand to anyone in the area and would just do things around his community that he saw needed to be done. Randy loved spending time with his family and he especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren.

Randy was preceded in death by his father, Ronald, and brother-in-law Bill Blatchfrod.

Randy is survived by his son, Ronald (Alycia) Nelson of Obert, NE; grandchildren: Wyatt, Sophie, Sadie, and Weston Nelson; mother, Mavis Nelson of Vermillion, SD; brother, Craig (Sharla) Nelson of Newcastle, NE; sisters, Jeanne Blatchford of Maskell, NE and Cloie Hegge of Riverside, IA; and many nieces and nephews.