Jeffrey John Nelson

Jeffrey Nelson, age 50, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026.

Jeff was born on July 17, 1975, in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, to Phillip and Mary (McClure) Nelson. He attended Orono Schools before continuing his education at Drake University, where he studied Mathematics and Physics. After completing his studies, Jeff moved to Rochester in 1993 and built a successful career as an IT consultant, working for multiple companies with the majority of that time being for IBM at the beginning and end of his career. Most of his career was spent working from home and he often complained about the long commute and the traffic jam he would encounter at the bottom of the stairs.

In December 2010, a chance encounter at Whistle Binkies led Jeff to meeting the love of his life, Katy. He would say that he swept her off her feet with his witty sense of humor. The two would later marry in 2012 and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and joy. In 2015, they were blessed with twin sons, Liam and Connor, who brought even more happiness and excitement to their lives. Jeff was never more excited or proud than when his sons were born. He loved his boys and being a father more than anything and cherished every moment with them.

Jeff was a man of few words, but his actions-and his voice-spoke volumes. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and ensure they were well cared for. He was also someone his friends could always count on and was willing to help out whenever needed. He was truly one of the smartest, kindest, funniest, and most private people we knew. Jeff made everyone feel welcome and could genuinely hold a bar-side conversation with anyone-whether talking about life, technology, or nothing at all. He could also be found enjoying a round of pool, darts or Golden Tee. He also never passed up a chance to play pull tabs and had an uncanny knack for finding a winner. He was an ace at financial planning and all things technology, able to troubleshoot even the most complex problems. He had a lifelong love of Star Wars, a passion that began in childhood and stayed with him throughout his life-even walking down the aisle to "The Imperial March" at his wedding.

Jeff's interests extended far beyond work and family. He loved Metallica, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd and it seems fitting that the final concert he attended was that of Roger Waters. He was an avid GI Joe collector and spent countless hours building intricate LEGO sets as a child. This passion for LEGO building was passed on to his sons. He had a love of sleeper cars- unassuming, yet fast under the hood and tended to remember years by what car he was driving at the time. He was a lifelong and loyal Minnesota sports fan and enjoyed watching and attending these games with friends and family. He took Katy to her first Minnesota Wild game which turned her into a forever fan as well. Jeff was a big kid at heart and had a remarkable ability to make children feel seen, included and excited. Whether it was joking around, engaging in playful roughhousing, or joining in their games, these antics earned him the nickname "Jungle Jeff". He brought laughter and fun to every moment, -his joy was contagious, especially with his beloved sons, Liam and Connor.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Katy Nelson; sons, Liam and Connor; parents, Phillip and Mary Nelson; brother Doug (Mimi); nephew Bennett; and Phoebe the cat with whom he had a mutually tolerant relationship; along with a very loving extended family and close friends.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-4 PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Ranfranz and Vine Remembrance and Reception Centre, 5482 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN, with a time of sharing at 3 PM. The family warmly invites attendees to share stories and photos of Jeff. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Brains Together for a Cure or to the family to help support the future education of Liam and Connor.

Jeff's warmth, humor, intelligence, and love will live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Nelson family.