Steven Nelsen was born in Williston on October 26, 1951 to Fred and Verna (Ellis) Nelsen. Steven grew up on the family farm south of Williston in McKenzie County. He joined the Navy and served for four years. He spent his time on the Aircraft Carrier USS Kitty Hawk.

Steven met Mary Sack and on August 10, 1974 they were married. They had 3 children, Jennifer, Trinity and Bill. Although they did not stay together in marriage, Steven and Mary still enjoyed spending time together. Their friendship was as strong as ever and admired by many.

Steve spent many years working at Interstate Oil and drove truck locally and over the road until he retired. He enjoyed his retirement years by grilling, cooking and baking. He went hunting, fishing and looked forward to playing cribbage. Listening to music and tinkering on projects in his heated garage. He was extremely clever and full of knowledge from his many life experiences. He was known for his strong will, stubbornness and lack of patience mixed with his great sense of humor, generous heart, and devotion to his friends and family. If you were a friend, he was invested in that friendship and went above and beyond to show his loyalty and always had time to listen.

Although gone too soon his wit never diminished and he had his brilliant mind until his last breath. He was brave, even in the end he found a way to smile with his half smile and bright eyes. To relieve the pain of others whose hearts were breaking, Steven Fred “Bumper” Nelsen died the way he lived…..with dignity.

Steve is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Elsbury, Trinity (Evan) Wrolson; son, William Nelsen; brother, Gary (Shirley) Nelsen; best friend, Tammy Andre; grandchildren, Brandon (Amber Jo) Elsbury, Logan Mudge, Ty Wrolson, Nevin Turner-Elsbury, Telissa Wrolson, Kyla Nelsen, Kasey Nelsen; great-grandchildren, Jasper Elsbury, Rylee Elsbury, Hunter Elsbury, Willow Elsbury; nieces and nephews, Kerry Pascal, Travis Nelsen, Tracy (Jeremy) Ledahl, Ginger (Brandon) McLean; numerous friends and extended family.

He is preceded in death by his father, Fred; mother, Verna; sister, Barbara Nelsen, sons-in-law, Roger Elsbury, Jay Emly; nephew, Valence Pascal.