James Edwin Nielsen

James "Jim" Edwin Nielsen, 71, passed away on August 23, 2026. Jim was born June 1, 1955, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Harlow and Myrtle Nielsen.

Jim was incredibly proud of his time in the U.S. Air Force. He served for more than 14 years as an Air Transportation Specialist, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. His career took him around the world, including more than six years overseas and service in support of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Even years after leaving the military, being an Airman remained an important part of who he was.

Jim married Editha on March 9, 1990, and they spent the next 36 years together. Their marriage brought the Philippines and a whole extended family into Jim's life, giving him family on both sides of the world. He was Dad to Rachelle and eventually Grandpa to Avery, a role that gave him someone special to spoil, tease, embarrass and make laugh.

If you knew Jim, you probably have a story about him.

He was sarcastic, stubborn, sentimental, helpful, set in his ways and completely unfiltered. He could talk to just about anyone, sometimes for much longer than they planned. He always seemed to have a story to tell, an opinion to share or a joke ready to go.

He could drive you crazy and make you laugh. He was practical, persistent and fiercely protective of the people he loved. Underneath the sarcasm and stubbornness was a genuinely caring man who loved his family deeply.

After leaving the Air Force, Jim worked as a FedEx driver and later as a school bus driver, where he enjoyed looking after the local kids.

Jim loved riding his Harley-Davidson and eventually found a special connection with the Patriot Guard Riders, bringing together his love of motorcycles and his respect for fellow veterans. He was also proud of his 1955 classic car, a fitting match for a man who was himself a 1955 model.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Harlow and Myrtle Nielsen; stepfather, Fidel Eckes; brother, Frank Nielsen; and nephew, Patrick Reiner.

He is survived by his wife, Editha; daughter, Rachelle; daughter-in-law, Chelsae; granddaughter, Avery; brother, Dale; sisters, Janis (Greg) Smith and Linda (Tim) Reiner; sister-in-law, Bonnie Nielsen; and his nieces and nephews, Peter (Jonnelle) Nielsen, Mike Nielsen, Matt (Julie) Smith, Anna (Paul) Sutton, Kristen Smith (Martijn Schoenmaker), Victoria (Nick) Lloyd, Andrew (Allie) Reiner, Scott (Taylor) Nielsen, and Heidi (Carl) Williams. He also leaves behind many other family members and friends, including family in the Philippines.

Jim leaves behind a lot of stories, a lot of memories and probably more than a few jokes that shouldn't be repeated in polite company. The ride may be over, but the stories and laughter aren't.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Gearty-Delmore Funeral Chapel, 3888 W. Broadway Avenue in Robbinsdale, with a service beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Jim will be laid to rest with military honors at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Those attending should arrive by 1:45 p.m. and proceed to Assembly Area #2.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to the Patriot Guard Riders through their tribute donation page (https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/help-forward-our-mission).