Nels Nolan Nelson, 45, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on April 19, 2025, in Marion. Born on October 22, 1979, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Nels lived a life as vivid and electric as the stories he loved to tell'infused with heart, humor, and an unwavering dedication to those around him. At the time of his passing, Nels was pursuing a degree at Kirkwood Community College with the intention of becoming a substance abuse counselor. This path spoke deeply to who he was: someone driven not only by personal growth but by a profound desire to uplift others. His studies were more than academic'they reflected his compassionate nature and hope for healing in a world that often needs it most. Nels shared his life with his wife and best friend, Sara. Together they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and countless shared moments'from cross-country adventures to quiet evenings watching movies or indulging in their favorite guilty pleasure: trashy reality TV. Their bond was stitched together by love and mischief alike. He was also a devoted stepfather to McKenna and Bennett. With Bennett, he found camaraderie in their animated video game sessions'particularly their fierce battles in Rainbow Six Siege. With McKenna, he melted under her charm, often caving during Sephora outings where she could talk him into nearly anything. These relationships were not just roles Nels stepped into; they were parts of his heart made visible. His beloved dogs, Dexter and Mozzie, were never far from his side. Whether curled up on his lap or offering silent companionship during quiet moments at home, they were part of the rhythm of his days. He now joins Posy, the cherished dog who preceded him in death. Nels is remembered with love by many: his mother, Lorri Nelson; father, Nels Nelson Sr.; stepmother, Lorna Nelson; brother, Beau Nelson; nephews, Wesley and Dominic Nelson; and grandparents, Larry and Joyce Wright. He also carries with him the memory of an angel baby whose presence touched this world too briefly. A man of boundless curiosity and energy, Nels found joy in reading and exercise'often sharing wellness tips with others as enthusiastically as he pursued them himself. To him, health was more than physical'it was about connection: sharing knowledge as an act of care. Among his fondest memories were family gatherings where he would arm wrestle with his brother Beau and grandfather Larry'a ritual that blended strength with silliness and drew everyone closer through laughter echoing across generations. Charismatic and sharp-witted, Nels had a magnetic presence that lit up every room he entered. His storytelling could hold anyone spellbound'woven with humor one moment and heartfelt sincerity the next. Beneath that brilliance lay a playful goofiness that surfaced once he felt truly at ease among friends or family. It was there'in those unguarded moments'that people saw the full glow of who he was: loyal beyond measure, endlessly entertaining, and deeply loving. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m., at Morgan Creek Shelter (7212 E Ave NW) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa'a gathering that will honor not just the passing of a remarkable man but the enduring legacy he leaves behind. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire kindness and connection in all corners of the world he touched.