John Lawrence Nelson

John Lawrence Nelson, 76, of Mullan, ID, passed away on May 3, 2025 at his home in Mullan. John was born on April 24, 1949 in Wallace, ID, a son of the late John and Aurora (Marra) Nelson. John was alternatively known as “Tennessee Tuxedo” to his friends.

John graduated from Wallace High School, Class of 1967, and began working in the mining industry. In 1969, he enlisted in the US Army and was honorably discharged in 1970. For many years, John worked in the mining industry as a hoistman, among other positions. He was an incredible mechanic and could fix anything. He had worked at the Sunshine, Lucky Friday, and Star Mines in the Silver Valley and retired working for Peak Mechanical, rebuilding mining equipment.

In 2000, he married Linda Ensor in Coeur d’Alene, ID and the couple had many wonderful adventures traveling around all over in their RV. John enjoyed taking the roads less traveled and found himself on many dirt roads throughout their travels. He dearly loved being outside in nature. John was a marksman and appreciated different firearms. He also had a deep love for music and its history, especially for The Beatles and Eric Clapton. In his earlier years, John was a bit of a wild man and all in good fun, but as the years went on he definitely enjoyed the simpler things in life.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his sister, Mary Cloos.

Survivors include his loving wife of 25 years, Linda Nelson; daughter, Lindsay (Seth) Nelson-Gray of Kellogg, ID; son, Skye Nelson of Plains, MT; two nephews, Randy (Judy) Cloos of Osburn, ID, and Rich (Debbie) Cloos also of Osburn, ID; two nieces, Mary (Mike) Duval of Hayden Lake, ID, and Robin (Jim) Gray also of Hayden Lake, ID. John is also survived by several grandchildren and many dear friends.

At John’s request, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Memories of John and messages of condolence may be shared with his family online at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the family with arrangements.