Wallace Merlin Nelson

Wallace "Merlin" Nelson, 93, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia. He was born on June 14, 1931, in Milner, ND, the son of Emil Nelson and Minnie Lenia (Damson) Nelson, who preceded him in death.

On May 8, 1972, in Arnold, NE, he was united in marriage to Charlotte Elaine Peck, who resides in the home.

Merlin truly lived his entire life committed to the Lord's work. For fifty years, Merlin was a Pastor with Open Bible Standard Churches. His ministry included churches in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Iowa. Besides being a pastor, he served as a missionary for two years, as an Open Bible District Superintendent in Nebraska, as an Open Bible Camp Director in Nebraska, and as a board member for Open Bible College. Upon retiring from Open Bible, Merlin continued to follow where the Lord led and pastored for approximately ten years for Foursquare Church in Knoxville, Iowa.

Merlin had a heart for the Lord and never missed an opportunity to witness and share with others about the Lord. He loved his wife and family and loved people and taking the time to talk with others over a cup of coffee. Merlin also had a heart to give. He gave unconditionally, never questioning a person's credibility or reputation. He often lent money on a handshake, knowing he would most likely never see a dime of it again. It was more important to him to follow what the Lord put upon his heart, leaving the outcome to God.

Merlin enjoyed life with his wife, Charlotte. They spent many hours on rides, admiring God's handy work and creation. He enjoyed coffee and sweets, often driving an hour away just for a good cup of coffee and a piece of homemade pie. He enjoyed working in the yard, being outdoors, collecting coins, spending time with his children and grandchildren, going to auctions, and reading.

Merlin leaves behind his wife, his family, and many, many friends and acquaintances. Merlin never knew a stranger. As a family, we will miss him dearly, but we rejoice in knowing he is with the Lord. His life of working and living for the Lord is now being rewarded in Heaven.

In addition to his wife, Merlin is survived by a daughter, Karen Laws of Sedalia; six sons, Bruce Nelson (Kathy) of Ft. Collins, CO, John Nelson (Janene) of Black Diamond, WA, Mike Patton (Shelia) of Sedalia, Mark Patton (Jan) of Sedalia, Randy Nelson (Michale) of Ozark, MO, and Brian Patton (Donna) of Des Moines, IA; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Merlin was preceded in death by a son, Steven Wallace Nelson; a daughter, Charlene Kay Patton; three brothers, Eugene, Dale, and Don; and five sisters, Lorrinda, Lois, Joyce, Phyllis, and Dorothy.

A private family graveside service and burial will be held at Highland Sacred Gardens at a later date.

Honorary bearers will be his grandchildren, Jan Nelson, Chris Patton, Stacie Merriott, Sherry Killion, Alana Patton, Derek Patton, Kyle Laws, Wyatt Nelson, Katie Nelson, T.J. Nelson, Cole Patton, Josie Patton and Laura Nelson.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital in honor of Merlin's son, Stevie, in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Merlin's family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Sylvia Thompson staff for the compassion and care provided to Merlin over the past four years.