Paul D. Nelson, 51, Barnum, died Wednesday, July 19, 2023 as a result of an ATV accident.  He was born on May 11, 1972 in Cloquet to Doug and Teri Nelson.  He grew up in Barnum and graduated from Barnum High School in 1991.  Paul entered the United States Navy immediately after high school.  In 1994, Paul married Christina Zomponti and to this union three children were born.  He served in the Navy, Navy Reserves and Air Force prior to retiring from the 148th Fighter Wing – Minnesota National Guard in August of 2022.  He had nearly 30 years of military service that came with 4 overseas deployments and visiting 16 different countries as he served his country with great pride.  Paul loved fishing, hiking, socializing, trap shooting, and fishing trips to Canada.  He always made friends wherever he went.  He looked forward to his retirement where he could travel more and see his granddaughter, Kendall Blaire.

Paul was preceded in death by his dad: Doug Nelson; and his grandson: Asher River Nelson.

He will be lovingly remembered by his three children: Megan (Ty) Bilanzich; Jacob Nelson; and Brandon (Heather Clement) Nelson; granddaughter: Kendall Blaire; mother: Teri Nelson; two siblings: David Nelson and Tammi (Nick) Jacobsen; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation will be from 4-7 pm Tuesday, July 25, 2023 in Hamlin-Hansen-Kosloski Funeral Home, Moose Lake.  Burial with Full Military Honors will be at 9 am Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at the Minnesota State Veteran's Cemetery, 4777 US-53, Saginaw, MN 55779.   Following the burial, there will be a Celebration of Life for Paul beginning at 12:00 Noon in the AAD Shrine Event Center, 5152 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN  55811.