Harlan C. Nelson

Harlan Carl Nelson, 65, of La Crescent, MN passed away Saturday October 5th, surrounded by his wife and 3 daughters in the comfort of his own home after a long battle with cancer. Harlan was born on November 19th, 1958 in Caledonia, MN to Ronald Nelson and Mary Botcher. He graduated from Houston High School in 1976. On July 14th, 1984, Harlan married the love of his life, Stacey Hongerholt, in Houston, MN. They recently celebrated their 40th anniversary. 

Harlan “10-speed” was self taught and began his career at Mathy Construction. In 1998, he started his own business, Power Control Services, providing consulting and engineering services for the asphalt industry. Harlan could fix anything, especially if it had an engine. He was hardworking, talented, loyal, selfless, generous, and considerate. He will be missed for his quirky, quick-witted personality. Harlan enjoyed restoring muscle cars, traveling, golfing, spending time with family/friends, and breakfast at Kaddy’s Kafe with his buddies. 

He is survived by his wife, Stacey; daughters, Ally Nelson, Rachael (Josh) Parker, and Taylor Nelson (Noah Truax); grandson Breck Parker; mother, Mary Botcher; his three special sisters, Donna (David) Wierzgacz, Darlene (Jerry) Larson, Shirley (Jeff) Reif; brother, Cecil; and many nieces/nephews and aunts/uncles.

He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Henry Nelson; father, Ronald Nelson; aunts and uncles and grandparents.

Harlan’s family would like to express their gratitude to Paul Molling and all of Mayo Clinic Health Systems in La Crosse, Onalaska, and Rochester for their care, knowledge, and assistance during this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at the La Crescent Area Event Center. There will be a time of sharing and remembrance beginning at 2:00 pm.

Harlan loved classic muscle cars. If you have a classic car, please feel free to drive it in memory of him. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of these organizations that are near and dear to Harlan’s heart: Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation, Get Your Rear in Gear, La Crosse Suicide Prevention, or Mini Donut Foundation.

Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation

Get Your Rear in Gear

La Crosse Suicide Prevention

Mini Donut Foundation