Jim L. Nelson

James Leonard Nelson, 92, passed on Saturday, November 19, 2022.

Jim was born on June19th 1930 to Harvey and Susie Nelson in Shelby, Montana.  Jim graduated from Shelby High in 1948.  He joined the US Marine Reserves in Shelby and fought in the Korean War from 1950 - 1951.

When he returned home, he worked at various businesses owned by his father eventually operating a small grocery store that was located just east of the current Shelby Police Station.  In 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Georgia Sisk.  Together they raised 4 children, Harvey (Beth), Nancy Reedy (George), Frank, and Wade (Kayleen). Jim also had a daughter, Lanette Sorlie (Mark) from a previous marriage.

In 1966 Jim, along with his brother, Ray, opened a brand new 10,000+ square foot state of the art supermarket called Harvey’s Thiriftway.  The store was later renamed Harvey’s IGA and was sold in 1979.  In Dec. of 1979 Jim purchased the Alibi Lounge building and ran the Alibi Bar until his retirement in 2001 at the age of 70.

He enjoyed golfing and traveling with Georgia until her passing in 2011.  In later years he enjoyed time with his dog, Sparky, taking drives around town and spending time with the “Coffee Crew” at the Griddle every morning. Local family and friends along with the occasional visitor always enjoyed Jim’s stories and his wealth of Shelby history. The last year of his life was spent living at Logan Health Assisted Living, and thanks to the loving staff and residents, he was the happiest he had been in several years.

Jim is survived by his 5 children, 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 2 sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.

Per Jim's request, no services will be held. Memorials can be made to the Logan Assisted Living Activity Fund.