G. Gary Nelson

G. Gary Nelson Glenn "Gary" Nelson , 76, of Twin Falls passed away Saturday, August 30, 2014 in Twin Falls from an auto accident doing what he loved most in life - driving his hot rod Chevy pickup. Gary was born in Twin Falls on March 27, 1938, to Glenn John and Mildred Pearl (Hollon) Nelson. He graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1956. Following high school, he attended the University of Idaho. His love for his sweetheart was too great and he returned home to the Magic Valley to marry Shirley Baty on December 1, 1957. He farmed with his Dad, but always found time to work on cars for himself and others. If it had an engine, Gary had a passion for it - the Faster, the Better! He was one of the original hot rodders - well known for his drag racing both on the track and back roads. He was one of the founders of the Magic Valley Timing Association. Gary and Don Sykora started D&G Automotive so they could buy auto parts cheaper. Not only did he drag race, but he raced motorcycles and was #1 in the West in snowmobile racing for several years. Gary owned his own body and paint shop and was also an Arctic Cat snowmobile and Bultaco motorcycle dealer. D&G eventually evolved into selling cars. In 1980, Gary became a realtor and together, he and Shirley, opened Nelson Realty in 1986 - holding designations of CRS and GRI. He was an active member of the Elks. Gary is survived by his wife, Shirley, and three daughters, Sheree Nelson(Dan) Nickel of Twin Falls, Debra (Mike) Requa of Twin Falls, and Colleen (James) Murphy of Long Island, New York, 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, sister-in-law, Carmen (Bill) Assendrup, and brother-in law Gary Baty. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Darlene Hafer. In lieu of flowers, please drive your hot rods, classic cars, or motorcycles to the service or make a donation to the Hollister Community Church. When you see a burn out on the pavement, think of Dad! Family Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2014 from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at Parke's Magic Valley Funeral Home 2551 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls, Idaho. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, September 4, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home with Steve Taylor officiating. Burial will be held following services at Twin Falls Cemetery, Twin Falls, Idaho. Those wishing to share memories and condolences may do so on Gary's memorial webpage at www.magicvalleyfuneralhome.com.