Redginald Einar Nelson

With heavy hearts, the family of Redginald Einar Nelson of Stony Plain, Alberta (formerly of North Portal, Saskatchewan) announce his passing on February 4, 2025 at the age of 76. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Redge is survived by his loving wife Darlene; his children Tracy (Paul), Jackie (Darren), Jennifer (Mathew), and Travis; Darlene’s children Denise (Kelvin), Darren (Zoe), and Deanna; grandchildren Kieran (Alexa), Kayleigh (Grant), Kendra (Connor), Logan (Emma), Megan, Gabriel, Mila, Anna, Madisyn, Wyatt, Austin, Riley, Lucas, and Mackinley; his siblings Raymond, Sharon, and Arlene; siblings-in-law Wendy, Stew (Joyce), Roberta, Gail, Cindy (Reg), and Robert (Sheri-Lyn); the mother of his children, Luella; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Redge is predeceased by his parents Einar and Aleta; uncle George; brother Dennis (Marie); Darlene’s mother Dorothy; siblings-in-law Sam, Ruby, and Bobby; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Redge was born in Oxbow, Saskatchewan. He was raised on the family farm at North Portal and lived there most of his life, growing cereal crops and raising dairy and beef cattle. Redge and Darlene moved to Stony Plain in 2017 to enjoy their retirement years.

Redge learned music at his mother’s knee with uncle George and brother Raymond nearby. He was always happy to play the guitar in jam sessions, particularly with friends from Missouri and the group styled as “The Old Dogs” (famous across south-east Saskatchewan). Over the years, Redge served his communities in various ways, including as a Councilor for the R.M. of Enniskillen for 20 years, playing guitar at cancer fundraising events, serving the United Churches of North Portal and Stony Plain, and the Cedar Brae Condominium Board.

Redge loved to spend time with family and friends and loved to tease and laugh. He was always up for a game of cards – famously, crazy rummy and canasta – and every child and grandchild was taught how to play cribbage as soon as they could hold cards and count. He loved to travel, whether it was to a campsite or to a cruise ship; his two favourite cruises were through the old Panama Canal and, a few years later, through the new one.

Redge was a faithful friend who was always willing to laugh, learn, and be a patient teacher. He built a community of wonderful people around himself. He will forever be held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him and his cheerful, gentle presence.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 at the Stony Plain United Church. Details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local food bank, Liver Canada, or a charity of your choice.