Melvin G. Nielsen

Melvin G. Nielsen

1929 – 2025

IDA GROVE - Melvin George Nielsen, 96 of Ida Grove, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Ida Grove. Rev. Neil Wehmas will officiate. Committal Services will be held at a later date.

A Visitation will be held from 3-5 p.m., on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Ida Grove.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online atwww.christensenvanhouten.com

Melvin Nielsen was born on Oct. 2, 1929, on a farm North of Battle Creek, Iowa, to Thorvald and Helma (Albertsen) Nielsen. He was the second son born to this union. Melvin grew up on the farm and attended schools near his home.

In 1948, Melvin met the love of his life, Rose Kollbaum. Melvin and Rose were married on Oct. 8, 1950 and they were blessed not only with three children; Craig, Connie and Mark, but with 72 years of marriage together.

Melvin enjoyed several career paths during his lifetime. He always had a passion for driving truck, and that remained a constant throughout his years. He was also a very talented carpenter and worked for United Builders in that capacity for several years, until one day, an unforeseen change was to happen. Melvin and Rose were given an opportunity to open a diner, and Mel’s Diner became a reality. Melvin soon changed hats and became an assistant to the “chief cook,” Rose. He had a lot to learn about feeding all of the locals, but with lots of support and encouragement, the diner was a success, and that time in their lives remained very special to both of them.

Once their time in the diner ended, Melvin was not yet ready to retire, and he continued to work seasonally at Crop Mate. He enjoyed the comradery of the crew and looked forward to helping out each year. Finally, at the age of 82, Melvin decided to sit back and enjoy retirement. He was busy taking immaculate care of his lawn, watching his game shows, and sitting on the front porch watching the world go by.

Left to cherish his memory are daughter Connie Jordan and son Mark (Lanette) Nielsen, all of Ida Grove. He was also blessed with many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Melvin is also survived by sister-in-law Janet Nielsen of Ida Grove.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents Thorvald and Helma Nielsen; wife Rose; infant son Craig; siblings Roy, Ronald, Donald, and infant sister; son-in-law Richard Jordan; great-grandson Elliot Jordan; and great-great grandson Jordan Reed.